News

The weather is still in a holding pattern today but don't expect wall to wall sunshine everywhere even though we are under the influence of relatively high pressure.

Easterlies are continuing to hang in and delivering further cloud which may thicken up over Northland and Auckland today but then brighter periods could also appear as an offchance.

We've had plenty of comments on our Facebook page today in regards to cloud and breezy skies over some parts of the country and it doesn't seem that it's likely to disppear anytime soon.

February is traditionally our hottest month of the year but the easterly flow across much of the nation is keeping temperatures near average or a little cooler than expected at this time of year. Bright sunshine is lacking so therefore some cloud cover is stopping the mercury from going very high.

Cloudy areas are expected to cover much of the country today however some sunshine is more likely in inland areas but still glimpses are also likely to make an appearance near some coastlines.

There's a chance of a shower in the deep south this morning but hopefully that will move away throughout the morning with drier and sunnier spells later.

What do you think of when you think of January?  Many New Zealanders think of sun, surf, sand, BBQs, ice cold beer and good white wine - but this summer has so far been a mixture of rain, cold, some heat and spring like winds.

Winds and rain took hold over parts of the nation overnight and the deep depression hasn't quite finished its business yet with the promise of further high winds in central parts.

Yesterday the MetService issued the first of the warnings and overnight some thunderstorms or heavy downpours were also picked up by some writing into the WeatherWatch.co.nz facebook site.

Last year rain and snowy events made their presence felt over parts of the country and rainfall and sunshine totals were varied for the 6 main centres as well.

Big crowds have followed the HRV cup cricket 20/20 matches around the country this summer and today Colin Maiden Oval in Auckland is set to host a match at 5pm between the top of the table Auckland Aces and the Central Stags.

Although we are not halfway officially through the summer season, what are the best and worst summers you can remember?

It's important to remember how fierce the sun can be in our part of the world at this time of year and here are some useful reminders about  the sun's harsh rays.