Powerco are reporting numerous power cuts as Cyclone DOVI moves across the central North Island on Sunday morning.

At 9.30am, 353 properties were reported without power in Waihi and 333 without power in Waikino. In Paeroa 498 properties also had a power cut. Site investigations are underway.

A power outage due to strong winds at Port Charles, Coromandel, is affecting 304 properties. Power is expected to be restored there by 1pm.

Earlier, there were power cuts reported after 8.30am to 528 properties in Matamata, 34 properties in Whitianga, 51 properties in Whangamata and 112 properties in Paengaroa. Power is expected to be restored to these properties by Sunday afternoon.

Strong winds are the cause of multiple power cuts across the lower North Island earlier on Sunday morning, affecting Fielding, Hunterville, Palmerston North, Masterton and Hawera,

MetService advise that Cyclone DOVI is moving across the central North Island this morning and afternoon, then away to the southeast.

"Heavy rain affecting areas from Canterbury to the central North Island is expected to ease
this afternoon as DOVI moves away," says a MetService spokesperson.

"Gale to severe gale winds associated with DOVI are affecting the upper South Island and many
parts of the North Island, and these winds should ease towards this evening.

"This is a significant weather event, with widespread adverse conditions likely.Warnings and Watches for heavy rain and severe gales are in force for many places.

"Lastly, significant and hazardous waves with the potential of hazardous cross and rip currents are expected in association with Cyclone DOVI. The largest waves are expected on the west coast of the North Island until this afternoon"

Expert meteorologists at MetService are closely monitoring this situation.People are strongly advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts from MetService, and to follow official advice from authorities.