A storm is set to hit southern and central areas of New Zealand bringing strong winds, rain and snow. Weather reports say the storm will likely stay in the country for the next three days due to the unusual but powerful combination of weather systems.

New Zealand's Civil Defence urges people to prepare for emergency power outages and possible cuts to phone lines especially those living the South Island and central North Island. The coming storm is said to be the worst one yet to hit winter so far.

Meteorologist Daniel Corbett for MetService media and communications said that people should brace for the cold winds the storm will bring. The high amount of snowfall in Auckland two years ago may be unlikely to happen again, residents of the city are advised to remain alert since they cannot escape the coming storm.

Corbett said last Friday's temperature barely went beyond 10 degrees Celsius. Residents will be more than likely to experience the cold blast of winds.

Affected areas

The coming storm in New Zealand is a product of weather systems in Antarctica, Tasman Sea and the Southern Ocean. The strong southern winds will start working their way up to the South Island within the day. The cold winds will reach the Far North tomorrow.

Severe gales caused by southwesterly winds will affect many coasts. Corbett warns the gales will move towards the west coast then move on to Waikato and Northland. The storm will ease out by Saturday or Sunday as the pressure gradient opens up.

A significant amount of snow is expected in Marlborough and some parts of Canterbury which includes Christchurch. Powerful westerly winds from Northland to Taranaki with rainshowers may cause strong winds. People living near the coast are warned to stay away from beaches due to large waves.

Weatherwatch has forecasted southerlies to bring hurricane-force winds of up to 150km/h tomorrow night. Affected residents are those living in Kaikoura, Wellingtone and the southern part of Wairarapa.

Red Cross on alert

The Red Cross is prepared for emergency operations and established a centre in Christchurch. Emergency response teams are on standby for immediate assistance.