A wet and windy weekend is expected for New Zealand.  Several spring fronts will bring heavy rain and strong winds with them.

The strongest winds are likely to be about central New Zealand today.  Much of the South Island will also see the stronger winds.  Severe gales are expected in these areas.

The North Island will also get in on the stronger winds during the afternoon and evening.

Widespread rain is already falling about the western and upper regions of the South Island.  These areas will continue to see rain, possibly heavy.  Rain will spread about the North Island as we go through the rest of the day.  Pockets of heavy rain are likely about Taranaki and southern Waikato from midday.

Thunderstorms are also possible from midday about the western sections of both islands, but especially from the West Coast to Taranaki.

By WeatherWatch Analyst Howard Joseph