Power is still off for some residents in the South Island following last night's storm

Up to six thousand customers in Canterbury - and four and half thousand in Central Otago were left in the dark

Orion has restored power to all but 432 homes - in the Avonhead and rural areas.

Around 420 homes and business in Central Otago remain without power.

The worst affected areas are Lauder Flat and parts of Glenorchy and Paradise.