It's expected to be a blustery day for people in central parts of the country

A strong wind watch covers exposed parts of Wellington and Wairarapa, including the Tararua District, and also Marlborough Sounds.

MetService says northwest winds could reach severe gale strength in those areas.

People in western parts of the South Island and the lower North Island could be hit by heavy rain today and thunderstorms until tonight.

There's a severe weather watch in place for Fiordland, north of Doubtful Sound, the Westland ranges, south of Otira, and the western ranges of Nelson and Buller.

The Tararua range, Mount Taranaki, Waitomo and Taumarunui will also be in the firing line.