Strong winds are causing traffic delays in Canterbury.
The police say trees and powerlines have been brought down in the high winds, causing traffic to be backed up on State Highway 73 in the Porters Pass and Springfield areas.
Power lines and trees are also blocking Smith Road and Beachcroft Road in Leeston.
The MetService predicts the severe northwest gales, with gusts up to 130 kilometres per hour, will continue until about 4pm on Saturday.
