More spring-like weather has returned to New Zealand this weekend with gusty winds pushing into eastern parts of both islands and central areas.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says winds may be gale force in exposed parts throughout the Southern Alps and will be gusty later today and into Sunday around Wellington and Wairarapa.

The strong nor’westers are also responsible for a big spike in predicted highs today.

But the hot winds will be short lived – a southerly will push into Southland tonight/overnight and then into the North Island on Sunday morning. 

The winds should then ease for most.

Meanwhile a large high remains anchored to the top of the country, providing more sunny, dry, weather for most.

Significant rain continues to remain out of the forecast for Northland for the next 10 days.