Weather: Thousands without power across Wellington and South Island

Wild weather has disrupted power supply to thousands of homes across New Zealand's Wellington region and the South Island. The severe conditions, characterized by strong winds, are causing widespread issues in both the lower North Island and the upper South Island.

Authorities have issued strong wind watches for parts of Marlborough and Hawke's Bay. Additionally, orange wind warnings are in place for Southland and Fiordland, indicating the severity of the expected weather. These alerts are in effect until this afternoon, suggesting the immediate threat to infrastructure and public safety.

The impact of the weather has been significant, leaving hundreds of households without electricity. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions. The full extent of the damage and the timeline for restoring power are still being assessed.