A strong wind watch remain in place for the Bay of Plenty today as gale west to southwest winds across parts of New Zealand.

The strong and cold west to southwest flow affects New Zealand as a strong win watch remains in force for the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, Hawkes Bay south of Hastings and the Tararua District, Canterbury north of the Waimakariri River, Dunedin, Clutha and Southland, says the Metservice.

'People are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecast.”

Strong Wind Watch:

Area: Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty including Rotorua.

Valid: 12 hours from 2pm Thursday to 2am Friday.

Forecast: Westerly winds may approach severe gales in exposed places.