As the weather bomb continues to head well to the east of the country, winds continue to ease over most affected areas this afternoon although still rather gusty in pockets over some central and eastern areas of the country.

The impact of the storm has seen a drop-in centre set up in South Taranaki for people needing advice after the weather bomb.

The town of Patea has been badly affected, with a lot of damaged buildings and some homes still without power.Residents are encouraged to head along to the drop in centre at the Patea Old Folks Hall if they need advice about which agencies they may need to contact for help.

People are reminded to treat all loose power lines as live stay clear of damaged buildings.Anyone with issues with water supply or wastewater should contact the South Taranaki District Council.

Conditions have improved in the area today and are expected to be quite settled over the next day or 2 as many residents mop up in the town.

WeatherWatch.co.nz and NZHerald