Much of the country experienced a mild night with temperatures more akin to the end of January rather than late April.

Winds have been gusty over parts of the south during the hours of darkness and also assisting in keeping the mercury readings bouyant.
Thermometers almost topped 20 degrees in 1 or 2 areas and another mild evening is expected tonight as a north to northeasterly flow continues to keep its grip over the nation.
At 4.30 this morning, Dunedin Airport had a sou’ east brreze but a very warm 21 degrees. Tauranga and Paeroa were nudging 20 at that time too.

Rain is expected in the west today with some heavy falls possible with the chance of a thunderstorm. Some moisture is expected in the north with most of the country seeing maximums in the high teens or low 20s with relatively dry conditions in eastern areas.

Main centre highs

Auckland 21

Hamilton 22

Tauranga 21

Wellington 21

Christchurch 24

Dunedin 23