Early indications are that 2010 will end on a high – at least for most parts of the country, predicts WeatherWatch.co.nz.

While the final week of 2010 will see rain warnings for those on the West Coast, high air pressure is projected to move in later in the week bringing mostly clear, calm, weather for New Year’s Eve.

Head weather analyst Philip Duncan says just like the Christmas forecast the week ahead is looking a bit messy.  “Just like last week we have a large frontal band moving in and behind it showery conditions, and just like Christmas Eve we expect New Year’s Eve to see weather conditions improving right across the nation”.

Mr Duncan says strong westerlies and a low risk of a shower are in place for Southland and coastal Otago, south of Dunedin, on New Years Eve.  He says those in the south and east of both islands may also have a cooler evening with winds coming off the sea for many centres, except Dunedin.

Meanwhile the first day of 2011 looks sunny and warm right over New Zealand, predicts WeatherWatch.co.nz.  “Again, just like last week conditions are fairly changeable – so we suggest people check back with the forecasts later this week however at this stage January 1st, 2011, is looking mostly sunny and settled for New Zealand”.

Mr Duncan says the only areas to watch will be some sub-tropical developments north west of the country and a frontal band and low moving towards southern New Zealand in the Southern Ocean.  A large high is predicted to cover much of the Tasman Sea to the west.