Updated 7:15am — The Central North Island will be most exposed to thunderstorms today while rain finally eases in Otago, apart from a few remaining showers.

The weak but unstable low pressure system from the weekend falls apart today as high pressure starts to grow again from the Tasman Sea. The remnants drop into the Southern Ocean away from NZ and this reduces the thunderstorm and rain threats across the country.

Afternoon downpours do develop again through the inland and central North Island but may not be so extensive in the upper North Island, or Auckland.

Today will have average to above average temperatures.

Refer to your LOCAL HOURLY forecasts to drill down deeper.