A warm north westerly has this afternoon formed across eastern areas of both islands.  Napier, Hastings and Christchurch are all around 22 degrees with other centres in similar areas hovering around 20.

Southern regions of both islands are also being knocked around by gales however the strongest winds are remaining in remote areas.   Winds are gusting over 100km/h on the Rimutaka Ranges this afternoon and the Weather Watch Centre advises motorists to take care.

In Wellington winds are just shy of gale force, averaging over 50km/h with gusts to 75km/h at the airport.

Similar winds are being recorded in Invercargill.

The strong winds will ease overnight.