MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Timaru and Waimate

It says the Hunter Hills, are the area most at threat from between 1 and 1:30pm.

MetService says large hail stones are likely and are warning they could damage crops, orchards, vines,glasshouses and vehicles.

A severe thunderstorm watch is still in place for Christchurch, Canterbury Plains, the High Country, North and Central Otago and Dunedin.