Canterbury has been battered by severe winds overnight, with MetService confirming gusts well over 100 kilometres per hour in several areas.

The strongest was recorded at Mt Hutt Summit, where gusts reached 220 kilometres per hour at 4am. Geraldine Forest followed closely with 189 kilometres per hour at 4.30am.

Le Bons Bay on Banks Peninsula recorded 115 kilometres per hour just before midnight, while Fairlie reached 112 kilometres per hour at 3am. Springfield also saw 110 kilometres per hour at 6am.

Canterbury Group Controller Phill Mackay said the conditions caused power outages and some minor damage.

“MetService has amended the wind warning to reflect the northerly direction of travel for the system but we are still within a red wind warning until 3pm today, especially in North Canterbury,” Mackay said.

He thanked residents for their response to the warnings. “It is always important to consider how these winds may impact you and your property and take action to mitigate any impacts,” he said.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have reminded people to call 111 if they, their family, or property are at risk.