Although parts of the country have seen sunny skies and warm temperatures over the last few days, not all is as settled as it may appear, more so in the south.

The country has been surrounded by a number of cloud bands however in many northern and central areas these cloud formations have been at a minimum.  Some rain in the west and south of the country has fallen and the next 48 hours won’t be smooth sailing for many across the mainland.

Rainfall totals are expected to be boosted today with some heavy falls along the West Coast of the South Island and parts of Nelson and Marlborough especially. These should be short lived and not pose too many dangers for those in the great outdoors but holidaymakers still need to keep a wary eye on all streams and rivers .

Elsewhere, skies may appear a little threatening at times but nothing too signifiant should develop apart from some pesky drizzle in a few northern and western areas. Overall however, long sunny periods are anticipated across much of the North Island with warm temperatures.