Severe gales predicted for central NZ

Severe gales are set to hit Wellington, the Wairarapa and Marlborough this afternoon.

MetService forecast a front would move northeast over central and northern New Zealand early this afternoon.

Northwesterly gales ahead of the front over central New Zealand could gust to severe gale for a time in exposed places of Wellington, Wairarapa south of Carterton and also near the Marlborough Sounds.

Forecaster Gerard Barrow said severe gales could lift roofs and topple trees and power lines.

He said another front over the South Tasman Sea on Wednesday was forecast to hit the South Island bringing heavy rain

"The rain is likely to be heavy for a time, especially in Westland south of about Hokitika," Mr Barrow said.

He said that could make rivers and streams rise quickly.

- NZHERALD STAFF