Motorists travelling between Canterbury and the West Coast are being urged to take extra care as strong winds and bad weather cause disruption across key state highways.

An NZTA spokesman said State Highway 7 was down to a single lane near Heslop Creek Bridge, between Rahu Saddle and Springs Junction, because of fallen trees.

Stop go traffic management is in place and motorists should expect short delays.

On State Highway 73, an area warning is in place between Arthur’s Pass Village and Kumara Junction because of slips and flooding.

“Caution is advised along this route,” the spokesman said.

MetService also has a strong wind watch in place for the Canterbury high country from 11AM until 9PM on Saturday.

West to northwest winds could approach severe gale strength in exposed places.

A complex low pressure system is forecast to move onto the South Island from the Tasman Sea on Sunday.

MetService said there was moderate confidence rainfall totals could approach warning criteria around the ranges of Westland, Grey and Buller.

Some rain is also expected to spill into the headwaters of Otago and Canterbury.