A state of emergency was declared in parts of New Zealand on February 19 as ex-cyclone Gita brought severe wind and rain to the country.

In Taranaki thousands were reported to be without power due to the storm.

Gita was forecast to cross central New Zealand on February 20 and 21 with warnings of stormy coastal conditions and strong gusts of wind.

This video shows trees move as a result of forceful wind conditions along the fence of a sanctuary in Taranaki. Credit: Fiona Gordon via Storyful