Three people were killed and several were taken to hospital with injuries after severe weather – including a series of tornadoes – hit Auckland.
The destructive winds, which hit about 12.15pm local time yesterday, ripped roofs from houses, toppled trees and sent debris flying on to cars.
Two people were killed when a slab of concrete fell onto a truck.
Flights from Auckland airport were delayed or cancelled, roads closed and ferries halted.
“The severe weather experienced in Auckland today has caused some disruption to air travel, particularly to some regional New Zealand destinations,” said an Auckland Airport spokesman.
Forecasters are warning that more severe weather is on the way.
