High winds are battering parts of the country

In Canterbury, State Highway 77 near Mount Hutt's been closed after the wind damaged a farm building, spreading debris around the area.

Earlier, strong winds blew a small truck over onto an oncoming car, west of Ashburton - leaving a person moderately injured.

In Wellington, the Remutaka Hill Road is closed due to a high wind warning.

Orange strong wind warnings are in place for Wairarapa and the Tararua District, Wellington and the Canterbury High Country.

Oranga rain warnings have been issued for the Tararua, Westland and Buller ranges, as well as the headwaters of Canterbury lakes and rivers.