The fire service says there has been extensive damage to homes in Mount Maunganui after reports of a tornado.
Bay Park Speedway was hit hard by the mini-tornado. Photo: Twitter / H Chapman
At least 30 houses are thought to be affected, with roofs lifted and power lines down.
There are no reports of any injuries so far.
Fire Service shift manager Steve Smith said calls started coming in about 8pm.
"What they believe was a tornado, or extremely high winds, had whipped through from the Mount, heading south."
Homes within the area of Arataki are also without power, after power lines were brought down in the winds.
Powerco said electricity should be restored by about 1:30am.
Meanwhile, Tauranga airport has escaped damage, and Civil Defence has not been activated.