The North and South Islands are in for some contrasting weather on Thursday – as the high pressure system which has been keeping things nice and calm is set to move on, and a southwest airflow bringing cloud and rain moves onto the lower part of the country.

Canterbury is looking hot, while the West Coast of the South Island, and Otago and Southland, are looking at some spells of drizzle or rain.

Main Centres

Auckland

Cloud and sun mix together through the day, while breezes blow through at times in Auckland – as well as a high in the mid 20s.

Wellington

Sunny and fine through the day for the most part, with cloud and showers moving in late on in the day – and a high in the early 20s.

Christchurch

Cloud sticks around in some parts of the city, but temperatures will rise – getting up close to 30C at times in the garden city.

– Philip Duncan & Drew Chappell, WeatherWatch.co.nz

– Photo: Zelda Wynn