One person has died after being struck by a falling branch during severe winds in Wellington, where gusts reached up to 130km/h.

At around 9.20am emergency services received reports of a man who suffered critical injuries on Lookout Rd, Mt Victoria.

The man was taken to hospital but died a short time later, police said.

The death will be referred to the coroner.

The Tararua District, Wairarapa, and Wellington are currently under an orange strong wind warning until 8pm tonight.

Severe gale gusting of 130km/h are expected in exposed places, MetService said.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand have been approached for comment.

More to come.