And Yes, I know it's winter down under :-)

From Reader Wayne
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https://youtu.be/FOri9vbazDg

Massive 15-metre waves are expected to hit parts of the South Island, as rough wintry conditions head towards the country today.

WeatherWatch says a Southern Ocean storm is "pouncing'' the area - bringing waves of up to 15m high to the south west, as well as heavy snow, hail, isolated thunder and severe gales.

"The rough West Coast lives up to its name with highly dangerous beach and marine conditions across the next 72 hours at least,'' a statement said just before 8.30am.

Boaties and anyone keen on fishing on the rocks are being told to stay home until at least Tuesday because conditions are too dangerous.

A windy surge is heading towards the country today and weather experts warn it will only be the start of a wintry blast that will make for a wet, windy and cold weekend.

A storm in the Southern Ocean is rushing towards New Zealand and will hit the South Island today before breaking up over the North Island tonight and tomorrow.

Farmers in the lower part of the South Island are being warned that wind chills over the next few days will be "brutal'' in Southland, Otago and parts of the West Coast.

WeatherWatch head analyst Philip Duncan said: "The wind chill will be significant on Friday in the lower South Island. If you have newborn lambs and calves, just be aware this is going to be a brutal wind chill for you - well below zero, minus fours, minus fives as we head into Friday night."