This week kicks off hot and dry in the south and warm and cloudy in the north.

Temperatures are again likely to reach 30 degrees along the South Island’s east coast as a nor’westerly flow returns.  Some places inland may reach as high as 33.

Meanwhile the North Island, under high pressure, will experience humid and cloudy weather in the north and west.  Aucklanders will again see a cloudy day with drizzle patches while eastern areas will be sunnier and warmer, reaching the low to mid 20s.

The rest of the week sees yet another south west flow forming over the country and strengthening towards the end of the week ahead of a Tasman Sea low.

Those in eastern parts of northern New Zealand will be hoping the rain comes their way as rain water tanks start to empty out.  The forecast for Saturday at this stage shows a 60% chance of rain for Auckland.