Wellington wind warning escalates to Red in storm lashing country

MetService has upgraded its Wellington wind warning to red, the highest warning possible.

Wellingtonians are being warned to stay away from doors and windows as the highest winds hit.

A State of Emergency has been issued for the Selwyn district - evacuations sparked, roads closed and schools shut. See the full details here.

Flooding has hit many properties and roads Canterbury.

Many Canterbury schools have been closed for the day.

Planes, trains and automobiles: Most flights in Wellington have been cancelled, while a slip has struck the Remutaka Hill Road southbound.

Meanwhile the stormy weather, sea debris and waves are lashing coastal roads in the Wellington region.

Besides the red wind warning, orange strong wind warnings are in place for coastal areas, with six orange heavy rain warnings issued. Here's what MetService's warnings mean.

Strong wind watches are in place for the middle of the country and Banks Peninsula.

Waves off Wellington have reached a whopping 11.5m. The large swells and strong winds have cancelled ferries across the Cook Strait until Friday afternoon.

Strong wind gusts have seen speed restrictions put in place on Auckland's harbour bridge.

And yes, it's also snowing! The Mackenzie District and Tekapo are blanketed.

[Source: Stuff.co]