Rain, wind and warmth are the theme over the next few days (Weds – Fri) – with northern New Zealand and many eastern areas enjoying temperatures above average, both day and night.  This is due to warmer winds from the north and west for many places this week, weekend and even into next week for some.

Heaviest rain will focus mainly on the West Coast, especially Wednesday, but will also head north on Thursday, then clear most North Island places on Friday. It won’t be so heavy in the North Island and like the South Island it will be mainly western focused.  

South Island drought areas in the east may receive a little rain, but the waterways may get more than the farms do, due to spillover from the West Coast.  (It’s possible a southerly change next week may bring in some rain or showers to dry eastern parts of Canterbury – we’ll update later this week).

Windy weather will affect a number of regions, mostly east of the main ranges and around central New Zealand. While gales are possible in quite a few exposed areas it may mostly be below damaging threshold.  However those nearest to the ranges may be exposed to damaging gusts.  Those in rain or wind areas should be aware of any MetService warnings & watches currently in force.

(C) – WeatherWatch.co.nz