Wild weathers smashing the upper North Island and is likely to hang around into the long weekend

A low from the Tasman's bringing severe gales and thunderstorms to the region.

A strong wind watch applies to Auckland, Northland and Waiheke Island until 10pm, and gusts of up to 100-kilometres-an-hour could force Harbour Bridge lane closures.

MetService Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says the weather appears to be more settled by Monday.

She says south westerly gusts will hang around but not reaching today's extremes.