MetService has issued strong wind warnings for parts of the South Island

A potent low pressure system could bring gusts of up to 120 kilometres as far north as Central New Zealand.

Exposed areas - like Southern Fiordland, Southland, Dunedin and Clutha - are predicted to feel the worst of it.

Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says the lower North Island should keep an eye out.

She says the Wairarapa and Wellington can expect strong northerly to north-westerly winds from this afternoon into the evening.