Strong wind and heavy rain warnings are in place for much of the South Island and the lower North Island on Thursday.
MetService has also issued a rare red level strong wind warning for Canterbury, Wellington and Wairarapa south of Carterton.
A total fire and fireworks ban is in place for Canterbury, Marlborough, Wellington and Hawke's Bay.
The forecast has forced some of those involved in the mega-strike to change some of their plans.
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