A few thunderstorms and downpours will affect NZ in the days ahead as Cyclone Niran in the Coral Sea grows to a severe Cateogory 3 cyclone.

As of this update the storm was Category 2. Niran is likely to directly hit New Caledonia this weekend, but latest modelling shows NZ should miss a direct impact.

Still, it remains one to watch. The main focus for NZ is a cooler southerly coming in this weekend.