The first weekend of the school holidays is set to be wet, windy and wild for much of the South Island, and those heading away for a family trip should be prepared and planning ahead.

MetService is warning of severe gale northwesterlies for the Canterbury high country and Fiordland from tomorrow night, with damaging gusts of up to 140km/h in exposed places. It says damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures is possible, and driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

From late tomorrow and into Sunday, north to northwest winds are forecast to approach severe gale in exposed places in Christchurch and on the Canterbury Plains, in Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and inland parts of North Otago, Dunedin and Clutha, and in Southland.

Rain is also likely to dampen school holidays outings and activities, with MetService putting in place heavy rain watches for Sunday for the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers, the ranges of the Westland District, the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers, and Fiordland about and north of Doubtful Sound.

Whether driving in strong winds or heavy rain, motorists are urged to drive to the conditions – reducing speed and giving space to other vehicles. When buffeted by gale force winds, drivers should ensure a firm grip on the wheel and stay alert for flying debris – pulling over when the risk is especially high.

Stay up to date on the weather conditions at the MetService website and on the status of the state highways at NZTA’s Journey Planner site.