People in Auckland and Northland are being urged to batten down the hatches ahead of forecast gales later tonight.

Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

The MetService has issued a severe weather warning for the regions, with winds up to 120 kilometres an hour expected from 10pm tonight.

It said strong winds could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures - driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

Meteorologist Tui McInnes said an intense trough was moving east over New Zealand which had brought heavy rain today.

"The rain is kind of a precursor to these winds and then they fall in behind and blast us with a bit of gusty windflow and just slowly ease over Monday and Tuesday."

Power provider Vector said people should make sure trampolines and other outdoor items were secure.

Vector said it would have crews on standby in case wind or trees brought down power-lines.