Severe winds are continuing to cause major disruption in the lower North Island, upper South Island and West Coast - with wind warnings and watches in effect

Thousands are without power across Manawatu, Horowhenua, Kapiti Coast and north of Westport.

State Highway 57 will remain closed north of Shannon until further notice while crews work to remove a rolled truck, and clear fallen trees and debris.

MetService forecaster Thapi Makgabutlane says unsettled weather like this can be more likely at this time of year.

She says summer can bring warmer temperatures, which can make showers and thunderstorms more likely.