An Air New Zealand flight was forced to turn around mid-flight after being struck by lightning.

Flight NZ42 left Auckland Aiport shortly after 6pm Friday night local time and was quickly forced to return.

The plane was flying directly towards a thunderstorm bearing in from the Tasman Sea.

A spokesman for the airline confirmed the flight had "encountered lightning" in a statement to the New Zealand Herald.

The aircraft will now be inspected by engineers.

"Lightning strikes are not uncommon. Aircraft are designed with this in mind and our pilots train for this scenario," the spokesman said.

"Customers will be accommodated on alternative services."

Air New Zealand have been contacted for further comment.

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