We’ve seen heavy rain in the east this week, strong winds through central areas, and cold air in the north – while those in the deep south are enjoying the most settled weather in the nation.

Here’s the latest talking points about the weather today, as of 11:30am

• Heavy rain continues to fall in Marlborough but easing back a bit now around the more coastal areas of the region. Watch for rising rivers and slips next few hours.
• Rain is now setting back into Hawkes Bay – not as heavy as the other day but still one to monitor following recent heavy rains.
• The easterly wind flow is unusual for NZ at this time of the year (normally westerlies in late September) – we have easterly quarter winds until Sept 30th and October may start calm – backing what WeatherWatch.co.nz said several weeks ago:  that Spring arrived early this year in New Zealand.
• Today (tonight at 8:21pm to be specific) is the Spring Equinox… traditionally the time of year when we have a lot of westerlies and is the true technical start to Spring. As of tomorrow the days become longer than our nights.
• A few showers around Auckland and Northland right now – nothing much to talk about but a couple may be  bit short and sharp.
• This 4 day low (Sunday to Wednesday) finally eases tonight – but a new low from the Tasman Sea partially joins forces with it on Thurs/Fri/Sat bringing more rain and showers to northern and eastern areas of the North Island in particular.

– WeatherWatch.co.nz