A strong northwesterly airflow lies over the South Island today while northwesterlies build over the lower North Island. A ridge sits over the upper North Island. Generally a pattern of showers and cloud in the west, warmer out east. A chance of gales for the South Island today especially in inland areas so something to watch out for, the latest Metservice weather warnings should be looked at by anyone who thinks they may be affected by strong winds over the South Island today.

Northland, Auckland, Waikato & Bay Of Plenty

Any morning cloud breaks to mostly sunny weather, then expect some cloud from late afternoon or evening. Light northwesterlies develop in the afternoon.

Highs: 17-18

Western North Island (including Central North Island)

Mostly cloudy with northwesterly winds, chance of a light shower or two otherwise dry.

Highs: 14-17

Eastern North Island

Mostly sunny with northwesterly winds, picking up in the afternoon becoming gusty about the Wairarapa.

Highs: 18-20

Wellington

Mostly cloudy with northwesterly winds, gusty from afternoon. The odd spit or shower possible during the day.

High: 16

Marlborough & Nelson

High cloud thickens up by midday, northwesterlies become gusty in the afternoon then may gust to gale overnight. Later in the evening a few spots of rain are possible.

Highs: 16-18

Canterbury

Thick high cloud with breezy northerly quarter winds, strong at times inland with a risk of gales especially afternoon on wards. Brief rain spreads from the west into the foothills at times.

High: 16

West Coast

Cloudy with rain, becoming heavy later in the evening or overnight. Gusty northwesterly winds.

Highs: 15-16

Southland & Otago

Areas of high cloud with strong northwesterly winds, some rain moves through in the evening with a west to southwest change.

Highs: 15-18

By Weather Analyst Aaron Wilkinson – WeatherWatch.co.nz