Two completely different weather patterns will affect New Zealand Friday as a storm in the Southern Ocean brings wind and rain to the south and a high over the North Island brings settled sunny weather there.

Wind:

Southland and Otago will have a windy day today as gusty nor’westers kick in.   Those nor’westers will also move the South Island’s east coast lifting highs into the mid 20s for Canterbury.  Strong northerlies will also affect Wellington, Paraparaumu, Masterton and southern Manawatu.

Rain:

The West Coast is in for a drenching.  You’ll find the current rain warnings here.

Southland will also see some rain with only brief falls in Dunedin.  As those cold fronts head north Canterbury can expect some late showers and a cooler SW change.

Sun:

The central and upper North Island will lie under a ridge of high pressure today meaning sunny conditions will prevail.  Winds will be light with sea breezes near the coast.  A few harmless clouds are possible in the west.

Cricket:

The weather for the cricket in Napier looks fantastic today – and for the next few days.  For an in depth weather forecast that details chance of rain, humidity levels, temps, wind direction and speed, check out our special independent weather forecast for Napier here.  (And if you’re in Hawkes Bay it’s a free detailed weather forecast for you too!).

Other links you may be interested in:

– The latest on ex-tropical cyclone Jasper – is he still coming our way?  Click here.

– Have you taken part in our current poll?  Is the extension to Daylight Savings working?  Click here.

– What are your thoughts on Global Warming?  A report has said Kiwis don’t rate it as highly as they used to.  Click here.