Police say strong winds have wrenched corrugated iron roofs from farm sheds, cut power and uprooted trees near Takaka at the top of the South Island.
Sergeant Arthur Clarence says only a small area has been affected but Monday's wind was the strongest he has experienced.
Mr Clarence says pieces of corrugated iron became airborne near the highway, posing a risk to motorists.
The gales have died down on Monday evening.
