A sub-tropical storm with hurricane-strength winds is taking aim at New Zealand. The storm is on track to hit the top of the country tomorrow before sweeping down the country, affecting all the North Island and the north and east of the South Island. Potentially destructive winds are expected to barrel across the North Island for days. The storm was expected to bring torrential rain, widespread strong to gale-force winds and dangerous sea and beach conditions around the North Island. A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for the central North Island from Taupo to Manawatu including Hawke's Bay and Taranaki.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 02, 2018 20:37 UTC