Wind gusts up to 120kmh are approaching the southern region, prompting MetService to issue an orange weather warning.
An active cold front, preceded by strong, moist northwesterlies, is expected to move onto the far south of the South Island from the southwest tonight, then northeastwards across the island on Tuesday.
A MetService spokesman said strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures, and driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.
The severe gales were expected to affect Southland and Fiordland from 9am today until 2am tomorrow; and forecast to affect Otago from noon today until 5am tomorrow.
Wind gusts could reach 120kmh in exposed places, the spokesman said.
Police are advising southern residents to take extra care when driving, as wind speeds pick up around the south.
A police communications spokeswoman said a truck was blown over near Hedgehope about 4pm.
Fortunately there were no injuries. She said there had been reports this afternoon of high winds in parts of Southland resulting in occasional debris on roads and making difficult driving conditions.
"We're urging motorists to slow down, drive to the conditions, and allow a little extra time to get where you're going this afternoon."
In the Canterbury High Country, severe gales gusting up to 130kmh were expected to arrive about 2pm today and would continue until 9am tomorrow.
A watch is in place for Canterbury, Christchurch and southern Marlborough, with northwest gales expected from 6pm today until 11am tomorrow.
The spokesman advised residents to stay up to date with the latest forecasts in case further warning areas were added.
HEAVY RAIN WATCH FOR WEST COAST
A heavy rain watch is in place for parts of the South Island's west coast.
MetService said periods of heavy rain may fall in Fiordland from 9am today until 7am tomorrow.
Further north, heavy rain is forecast for the ranges of Westland, south of Otira from 1am until 4pm tomorrow.
