NZ copping Aussie-sized storm

A massive storm the size of Australia is thrashing New Zealand with no relief expected over coming days from strong winds, rain and bitter cold. The wild conditions prompted the NZ MetService to issue severe weather warnings for all parts of New Zealand's North and the South Islands until the storm passes over early next week. The service said winds peaking at 130km/h were whipping parts of the country on Friday, including Wellington, where power was cut off to more than 3500 homes. (Sydney Morning Herald)