Over the North Island today expect breezy westerly winds tending more strong northwesterly about Wellington and Wairarapa gale force in Cook Strait, sunny areas and some cloud for most although mostly sunny on the east coast and about the Bay of Plenty. Cloud will gradually increase about Wellington and the Kapiti Coast during the day with a few light showers possible from evening.

Cloudy on the South Island’s West Coast with areas of rain becoming heavier from afternoon in the south and then spreading northwards, winds will be breezy from the northwest. There is also a risk of thunderstorms later in the evening.

Dry out on the east coast however there will be a fair amount of high cloud, winds will be strong from the northwest from afternoon especially about Canterbury and Marlborough with gales in exposed areas inland. Nelson may get a few more sunny periods, it will remain dry there with gusty northwesterlies.

Temperatures in the mid to high teens for most in the North Island today, getting into the early 20’s on the east coast. High teen temperatures in the east and top of the South Island, mid teens on the West Coast.

WeatherWatch.co.nz