Great swathes of New Zealand face a rolling line of thunderstorms and blustery gusts tonight

MetService says there have already been 21,500 lightning strikes over land and water in a 12 hour period till earlier today. with more thunderstorms on their way.

There are currently 41 warnings and watches across the country as forecasters warn of a stormy night ahead.

Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued for South Wairarapa, Taranaki and along the West Coast beyond Raglan, and extending south across a choppy Cook Strait to Marlborough, Nelson, Buller and the Canterbury high country.

Small tornadoes have also reportedly gone through Waikanae Beach and Kapiti Coast this afternoon and early evening.

Waka Kotahi NZTA also warned of strong winds on the Auckland Harbour Bridge and told motorists to prepare for its possible closure.

MetService forecasts wind gusts around the bridge between 80 and 100km/h from now until tomorrow night.