MetService has issued a Severe Weather Watch for parts of New Zealand.

Strong west to northwest winds are forecast over parts of central and southern New Zealand today.

A west to northwest flow strengthens across New Zealand ahead of a front approaching from the west.

Strong winds are forecast to affect parts of central and southern New Zealand. Strong Wind Watches are in force for areas from Hawke's Bay down to Southland.

People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case any watches are upgraded to warnings, or further areas are added.

A Strong Wind Watch is in place for the following areas:
Area: Hawke's Bay south of State Highway 5, the Tararua District, and Wairarapa about and north of Featherston
Valid: 9 hours from 1:00pm Sun 16 Jul to 10:00pm Sun 16 Jul
Forecast: Westerly winds may approach severe gale in exposed places, especially inland towards the ranges.

Area: Canterbury High Country, and inland Marlborough south of Kekerengu
Valid: 9 hours from 2:00am Sun 16 Jul to 11:00am Sun 16 Jul
Forecast: Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.

Area: Inland parts of Otago, Southland including Stewart Island, and Fiordland
Valid: 7 hours from 11:00pm Sat 15 Jul to 6:00am Sun 16 Jul
Forecast: Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places, especially about higher ground.