The promised wind and rain is taking its time to move across the North Island and it might not be until later today or this evening before things rev up a little.

Most of the rain is remaining offshore but as the easterly builds showers or rain will slowly make their way across the upper north.The winds are still expected to rise and gain in strength as the day and evening wears on.

Overnight was relatively dry for many areas across the north however parts of Northland, the Coromandel and eastern areas of the North Island saw some showery activity.

Yesterday Cyclone Daphne formed to the west of Fiji however even though it’s likely to have New Zealand in its path as an ex tropical low, the wind and rain shouldn’t be too severe as it  will cover a wider range and therefore its energy should dissapate a little by the time it gets here.

The South Island is likely again to see the brighest conditions today although some areas could see mist or pockets of drizzle along and near the eastern coastline.
The south and west of the Mainland should again see a dry and mildish day after a cool start.

One concern as we approach the Easter break and the arrival of former Cyclone Daphne, already sodden grounds could have a problem with the extra amount of rain expected.

Story by WeatherWatch analyst R.Green