Winds are picking up for quite a few areas this afternoon and rain or showers are falling across a few western and southern areas already as a front flies in from the Tasman Sea.

Strongest winds appear to be in western and southern districts of both islands with Wellington expecting a continued buffeting.

The frontal system has prompted rain warnings across the West Coast.

Here are the latest warnings from the MetService…

Fiordland north of about Milford Sound
FORECAST

In the 6 hours from 8am to 2pm Saturday, expect 50 to 80mm of rain. Peak intensities of 15 to 20mm/hr late Saturday morning and early afternoon. Note further rain or showers are expected after this time, with possible thunderstorms this evening.

FREEZING LEVEL: 3200 metres, lowering later today to 1500 metres.

AREA/S AFFECTED

The ranges of Westland south of Otira
FORECAST

In the 12 hours from 8am to 8pm Saturday, expect 130 to 180mm of rain. Peak intensities of 20 to 30mm/hr late Saturday morning and afternoon. Note, further rain is likely after this time but at lesser intensities.

FREEZING LEVEL: About 3400 metres.

AREA/S AFFECTED

The Headwaters of the Canterbury Lakes and Rivers from about Arthurs Pass southwards
FORECAST

Rain is expected to develop this morning, and become heavy near the Divide. In the 10 hours from 10am to 8pm Saturday, expect 80 to 120mm of rain near the Divide and over 60mm within 15km east of the Divide.

FREEZING LEVEL: About 3400 metres.

AREA/S AFFECTED

The ranges of northwest Nelson
FORECAST

In a 9 hour period from 11am to 8pm Saturday, expect 60 to 80mm of rain. Peak intensities of 15mm/hr this afternoon.

FREEZING LEVEL: About 3400 metres.