The Auckland Sky Tower has taken a direct hit from a lightning bolt this lunchtime. A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for several areas in northern Auckland, including Rodney, Gulf and Albany. A severe thunderstorm watch remains in force for Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato and Bay of Plenty. The storms are expected to include torrential downpours, with up to 40mm of rain falling in an hour, which can lead to slips and flash flooding. Wind gust