Strong winds are expected to sweep across parts of the South Island on Tuesday, with warnings and watches issued for several areas.

Banks Peninsula is under an orange-level Strong Wind Warning from 11am to 5pm, with severe southwesterly gales forecast to gust up to 120 kilometres per hour in exposed locations.

While the chance of the alert being upgraded to a red warning is minimal, Metservice said the winds could still cause damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures.

Motorists—especially those driving high-sided vehicles or motorcycles—are being urged to take extra care.

Meanwhile, a Strong Wind Watch is in place for a broader region from 9am to 4pm, covering coastal areas of Dunedin and North Otago, the Canterbury Plains, and Christchurch city.

In these areas, southwest winds may approach severe gale strength in exposed places, and there’s a moderate chance the watch could be upgraded to a formal warning.

Residents are being asked to secure loose outdoor items and remain cautious on the roads as conditions deteriorate.