High pressure lies over much of New Zealand today but this doesn’t necessarily mean settled weather for all. Many regions about the upper North Island see heavy showers this afternoon, a chance of thunderstorms and hail too. Over the South Island it’s mainly sunny for most however cloud about Southland and Otago sneaks into Canterbury this afternoon and evening.

Northland, Auckland, Waikato & Bay Of Plenty

Areas of cloud with showers about, some may be heavy with hail. This afternoon there is a greater chance of heavy showers with thunderstorms and hail possible then clearing this evening. Light winds.

Highs: 15-17

Western North Island (including Central North Island)

Sunny areas this morning then cloud builds from around midday mainly inland, isolated showers develop this afternoon with a chance one or two may be heavy with hail especially Lake Taupo northwards then clearing this evening.

Highs: 12-15

Eastern North Island

Sunny areas this morning then cloud builds by midday with isolated showers moving in, a few showers may be heavy then clearing this evening. A chance of thunderstorms and hail about Hawkes Bay / Gisborne also especially in the ranges. Light winds.

Highs: 15-16

Wellington

Mostly sunny with northerly winds.

High: 13

Marlborough & Nelson

A mainly sunny day with light winds.

Highs: 15-18

Canterbury

Mostly sunny, cloud moves into South Canterbury this afternoon spreading northwards reaching north Canterbury by evening. There may be a drizzle patch or two this evening mainly for inland areas. Light winds gradually tend southerly.

Highs: 13-15

West Coast

A mix of sun and cloud with light winds.

Highs: 14-15

Southland & Otago

Mostly cloudy skies, chance of a light shower or drizzle patch otherwise dry. Light west to southwest winds.

Highs: 12-14

By Weather Analyst Aaron Wilkinson – WeatherWatch.co.nz