A powerful high just to the west of the South Island is strong enough to challenge our record books – but it’s not going to be a record breaker, reports WeatherWatch.co.nz.

The central air pressure is predicted to be around 1045hPa (hectopascals).  According to NIWA the highest air pressure ever recorded in New Zealand was 1045.9 in Wellington set in 1889.

In 2008 a large high in the South Island and Chatham Islands reached 1044hPa – just shy of the national record.

But despite this high being at 1045 the central pressure remains well offshore – and is likely to weaken as the centre moves towards New Zealand over the next 24 to 48 hours.

As of 4pm today the highest air pressure reading in New Zealand was at Puysegur Point located in the far southwest of the South Island within Fiordland.  The reading was 1039.3 – well short of the record.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says it’s unlikely anywhere will reach above 1040 although it will be very close.

Image: 1pm over New Zealand, courtesy NZ Govt