A very deep low is crossing the country over Friday and Saturday bringing strong winds and heavy rain across parts of the nation.

Heaviest rain is likely to be around Otago and Canterbury but heavy showers will also affect the western North Island over Friday.

By Saturday a colder south to south west change moves up the South Island bringing more rain to the east (easing at night) and some snow to the mountain tops and possibly the alpine passes.

To Sunday and drier, calmer, weather returns in many areas but a few coastal showers remain.

We also take a look to next week where westerlies may be making a comeback..

*Please note this video is focused on the weekend not the Friday flooding. Recorded Friday AM.

www.weatherwatch.co.nz