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Wellington airport - Figure 1
Photo RNZ

Strong winds at Wellington Airport have caused 10 flights coming in and out of the capital to be cancelled.

In a statement Air New Zealand said flight NZ417 has returned to Auckland and customers will be accommodated on the next available service.

Customers are advised to check their flights on the Air New Zealand app and website for updates.

Wellington airport - Figure 2
Photo RNZ

Wellington Airport warns there may be further disruptions.

MetService has forecast a heavy rain watch and a strong wind watch with gusts expected to reach up to 100km/h for Wairarapa, Wellington and the Marlborough Sounds through to 4pm on Thursday.

The north to northwest wins may approach severe gale in exposed places, it says.

Wellington airport - Figure 3
Photo RNZ

Heavy rain watches are also in place for the Westland ranges and the headwaters of the Canterbury lakes until 9pm. There's also a strong wind watch for the Canterbury high country until 3pm.

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