Aucklanders have been warned to brace for flooding and wind damage as a storm passes over the city this afternoon and tonight.
Southeast winds with gusts of up to 130km/h are possible across the region, while the heaviest rainfall is expected before 9pm.
MetService spokesman Dan Corbett said the winds were now building in Auckland, reaching 50 to 60km/h on the Harbour Bridge at 3pm this afternoon.
Exposed coastal areas and gulf islands were already experiencing winds of up to 100km/h.
The worst of the storm was currently lying over the Hauraki Gulf, and was expected to move across Auckland this afternoon, with the worst of the wind and rain between 4pm and 10pm.
"It's like a big boomerang of rain that's just sweeping in from the gulf,'' Mr Corbett said.
"Winds are going to continue to pick up over the next two to five hours or so, so unfortunately the timing is for a very wet and windy commute home in Auckland.''
Mr Corbett said the low pressure would lead to a higher tide, which coupled with a heavy swell and high winds could mean some coastal flooding.
Auckland Council and Civil Defence said low-lying coastal roads and reserves were likely to be affected, particularly either side of the peak tide at 11pm.
Coastal flooding is expected between 9.30pm and 12.30am, and contractors are on standby for sand-bagging and other assistance.
Residents are asked to secure any loose items, and be careful when driving.
Auckland Council is providing updates on facebook.com/aklcouncil, and on twitter @aklcouncil.
Flooding should be reported to Auckland Council on 09 301 0101.
Severe weather warnings
Heavy rain: Eastern hills of Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay and hills south of Cape Kidnappers, Eastern Marlborough, including the Sounds and Kaikoura Coast and Ranges.
Strong winds: Northland, Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula, Eastern Waikato, The central North Island high country from Mangakino to the lee of the Ruahine Range, Taranaki, Horowhenua and the Kapiti Coast, also the Marlborough Sounds.
