Weather: Heavy rain, 100km/h gusts as 'rain-maker' hits New Zealand

A blast of severe weather is starting to lash New Zealand - and meteorologists warn it's only going to get worse.

A large 'rain-maker' in the Tasman Sea is crossing New Zealand on Sunday, and already the country is starting to feel the effects.

"If you're in the North Island, then make the most of your morning on Sunday," NIWA warns.

"Winds are going to pick up throughout the day and rain is expected in the afternoon and evening.

"South Islanders (other than those in Otago and Canterbury) are in for wet and windy weather for much of Sunday."

The winds are going to get stronger throughout Sunday, with gusts expected to reach over 100km/h. The winds will be strongest in coastal wind tunnel areas, like the Cook Strait and in marine areas around Auckland.

"It does have pockets of severe weather with gales, dangerous seas, some areas of heavy rain and then some snow on the mountains and ranges," WeatherWatch warns.

MetService has issued a warning for heavy rain about Mt Taranaki, northwest Nelson and the ranges of Westland south of Otira. A strong wind warning is now in force for Auckland.

Not everyone will be negatively impacted though. Those in the east, like around Gisborne, may have a mainly dry and warm day with sunny areas.

Newshub.