Massive storm set to hit NZ tomorrow

NZ Herald
"One of the largest storms on the planet is forecast to bring heavy rain and snow to much of the country from tomorrow.While the storm, the size of Australia, was likely to remain at least 1000km south of New Zealand it was still expected to bring winds strong enough to bring down trees, power lines and even damage poorly built roofs in some areas, Phillip Duncan, head weather analyst for Weatherwatch.co.nz, said.Blustery conditions would affect the entire North Island with severe gales likely about Wellington, Wairarapa and the tops of ranges, Mr Duncan said.Strong winds would make driving much more difficult, especially for motorbikes, vans, trucks and other high-sided vehicles.Heavy rain was expected for all western regions from Fiordland to Waikato starting tomorrow, with a number of fronts lasting until the weekend. ...Southland and Otago could expect heavy snow with a southerly change coming directly off the Antarctic shelf during Friday and Saturday."
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Tasman storm gathering momentum