A burst of wind and rain is expected to spread over the North Island this Saturday, affecting most regions. Heavy downpours are expected around the upper North Island and western coastline with thunderstorms in the mix too.

Winds will pick up across the country from the north west, fuelled by a small low crossing the North Island.

Winds will turn more westerly later in the day for northern areas and southerlies are likely for Wellington.

Rain will also spread into eastern areas for a time.

However by Sunday things should improve as this low drifts out east.  There will be a few showers around, but generally drier and calmer across the North Island.

– Image / 12 Noon Saturday rain map

– WeatherWatch.co.nz