The winds return as we head into the weekend, blowing strongly from the westerly quarter – along with heavy rain at times to boot.

Things calm down again somewhat on Sunday, though westerlies continue to blow – making life difficult for western parts of both islands.

Friday

Saturday

Heavy rain for the West Coast of the South Island.

The North Island sees heavy rain move onto the southwestern corner of the Island in the evening then gradually moving northwards overnight.

Strong northwest winds for the upper South Island in the east in the morning, then easing afternoon. 
Cook Strait and much of the North Island (especially in the west) sees strong northwesterly winds. 
Cook Strait and exposed western areas will likely see gales at times from afternoon. 
The East Coast may see gales in the evening.

Sunday

A strong westerly airflow lies over the whole country on Sunday, western regions naturally feel this the most but also some eastern regions especially Southland & Otago.

– Please note, the idea behind this update is to focus on the main weather highlights, which is why not all regions are mentioned. 

For specific 10 day information for your city, town, rural community or island please see the 1000 forecasts on our homepage!

– Aaron Wilkinson & Drew Chappell, WeatherWatch.co.nz