Winds are reaching gale force at times about coastal parts of Auckland today as a sou’wester sets in.

The strong winds, a result of a large high moving in from the west and Rene to the east, have been gale force across Auckland Harbour, the CBD and exposed regions.

Gusts to 80km/h were recorded in the 3pm hour in Auckland Harbour with gusts to 85km/h in the Gulf.

The strong winds have made for rough rides on the ferries.

At Auckland Airport winds were averaging over 40km/h with gusts over 55km/h.

Southerly gales are affecting the Manukau Heads with gusts close to 90km/h.

Winds are near gale force in parts of East Cape too and also in Southland.  Westerlies gusting to 80km/h are currently affecting Invercargill.

The strong winds will ease overnight and tomorrow as the large high moves in.