Strong winds have caused power outages and fallen trees across parts of the South Island as weather continues to affect several regions.

Network Waitaki said minor power outages were reported near the Shag Point area, with crews responding to restore supply.

Residents experiencing outages were urged to contact the company on 0800 440 220.

The company also issued safety advice, warning people to stay at least 10 metres clear of any downed power lines and to treat them as live. Network Waitaki said people should not touch wires, trees, or objects tangled in lines, and should call police on 111 if power lines were down in a public area.

Meanwhile, an unplanned power outage affected parts of Irwell, Lower Selwyn Huts, Selwyn Huts and Springston after trees and vegetation came into contact with power lines.

Orion said 165 properties lost power when the outage began at 7.38am. By mid morning, electricity had been restored to all but 1 property.

State Highway 94 between Milford and Te Anau reopened after being closed for about 3 hours due to fallen trees near Milford Sound. Contractors were also responding to partial blockages on State Highway 73 in Canterbury and State Highway 6 on the West Coast.

MetService has an orange strong wind warning in place for Canterbury, particularly about the high country and near the foothills, until 5pm. Severe gale northwesterlies of up to 130 km per hour are forecast in exposed areas. Strong wind watches are also in effect for Otago and Southland.

Orange heavy rain warnings are also in place for the ranges of Westland, Grey and Buller, as well as the headwaters of Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur’s Pass.

Road users are being urged to take extra care, particularly those driving high sided vehicles, towing trailers, or riding motorcycles.