As we reported earlier in the week the highs that have dominated just to the north of the country are now shifting further south. This has opened the way for easterlies (which up until this week have been blowing well north of NZ and into places like Queensland) to shift southwards and over the upper North Island.

As the high to our east continues to move away to the east the flow will pull in more humid air, turning to rain or drizzle in some areas.

Latest mapping in our free new interactive rain map page is now showing an area of rain and showers developing offshore in the Bay of Plenty on Thursday night. 

On Friday, as that high moves further east, the wind flow will tilt more north east, pushing that area of rain and showers inland.  

WeatherWatch.co.nz says Bay of Plenty will receive rain, as will Gisborne and possibly northern Hawkes Bay.

Rain is also expect to push in as far south as Central Plateau.

In the north Coromandel Peninsula is also in the path for rain with Auckland, Waikato and Northland on the edges of it – but possibly close enough to receive some precipitation, mostly eastern areas.  It may only fall as showers or drizzle in those regions, but will be close to rain.

On Sunday a rain band in the form of a cold front coming in from the west will also bring another top up.

However the nature of both systems means rain may not be widespread – so not all farms, water tanks, lawns and gardens will receive a good soaking.

The long range models are still uncertain about timing and which regions will receive the most rain, so WeatherWatch.co.nz advises people to keep up to date with the free rain forecast maps available here.

Image / Rain map for 7pm this Friday.  Blue indicates moderate rain, purple light rain, pink showers/drizzle.

– WeatherWatch.co.nz