As per reports, the meteorological service of New Zealand has issued orange and yellow weather alerts for heavy rainfall, strong winds and thunderstorms, affecting parts of New Zealand on Friday (02 February).

• Heavy rain and strong wind warnings are in place for central New Zealand and the West Coast of the South Island. Strong winds up to 120 kilometres per hour (kmph) are expected in Wellington, Wairarapa, and the Marlborough Sounds.
• An orange warning is issued for heavy rainfall affecting Buller, Westland, and Greys District Ranges. Thunderstorms are also likely to bring hail to the affected regions.
• Rainfall is expected expected between Northland and K?piti. There is a possibility of thunderstorms south of Whanganui.
• In the regions of Canterbury, Otago, and Southland there is a likelihood of rain spreading north with possible thunderstorms and hail.
• The weather pattern is attributed to a strong, fast-moving cold front preceding hot air from Australia.