We haven’t seen it very often lately but most of the country is gearing up for a fine Saturday for day one of the three day weekend.

Sporting fixtures should be all go and gardening and lawns might be on the agenda for a number of us today.

Temperatures should be near average today if not a little warmer than the last day or 2, as the cold air from the recent southerly gradually eases and moves away.

A few inland showers are possible especially over the mainland today and Gisborne and Hawkes Bay might just see the remnants of that southerly this morning with some cloud and a shower or 2. Hopefully this will clear by late morning.

Labour weekend is often touted as the best time to plant a vege patch but don’t be fooled this year. Next week could be a tricky week with some very unstable conditions making a visit to our shores.

We’ll keep you posted as the time draws near but let’s enjoy the best weather of the long weekend while it’s here!