Today most of the country saw the sun at some point, after big frosts in many areas this morning. As a result, most of the temperatures were a fraction milder than in recent days.

Russell and Paihia climbed to 16 degrees and were the warmest spots around the country and apart from Waiouru, still feeling the cold wintry air with 4 degrees, the only other North Island town in single figures was Taupo with 9.

Only four or five centres over the mainland remained in single digits, which is a considerable change from recent days. Alexandra, after a terrific frost, climbed to 10 degrees, ahead of the likes of Christchurch, Darfield and Gore, which couldn’t quite achieve double-figure status.

To the main centres and Auckland clocked in with 14 degrees, Hamilton and Wellington were both on 13 degrees, Christchurch 9 and Dunedin got to 10 degrees, after a recent spate of chilly days.

Tonight the frosts return for much of the east of the country, but out west, some showers are moving in, which means temperatures won’t be as cold but conditions may not be as pleasant.

Napier, Hastings, Masterton, Christchurch, Ashburton, Timaru and Alexandra are all expecting another very cold night with more frosty conditions likely and the thermometer dipping below zero, but the pay off should be a generally dry and sunny day tomorrow.

For the remainder and particulary those out west, the night should bring in some cloud and some more moisture too and tomorrow unfortunately, not too much change.