A storm likely to bring damaging winds and huge waves is centring on New Zealand's West Coast, sparking warnings to those camping, tramping or on the water. MetService meteorologist Peter Little said the southwest change kicking in on Wednesday into Thursday would drop temperatures by up to 10C in the South Island. In the South Island today, Kaikoura is the hot spot with 28C. The front is expending its energy in the South Island, and central New Zealand - Wellington, Wairarapa - are bearing the brunt of the strong winds. Severe weather warnings have been issued.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 17, 2021 06:00 UTC