A big low pressure system is on the way towards the country – moving over us across the weekend – meaning wind, rain and high temperatures return.

The low is moving in from our west, pulling winds from the northwest across New Zealand, meaning gales are likely at times, and some heavy rain in parts of the country.

Friday

Purple: Strong southwesterly winds about the east coast of the South Island

A ridge of high pressure moves in on Friday, meaning most of the country stays relatively calm, settled and clear heading into the weekend.

 

Saturday

Purple: Strong northeast winds over much of the North Island and the Tasman & Marlborough regions

Blue: Heavy rain in the Upper and Lower North Island

A large low moves towards New Zealand from the Tasman Sea, resulting in a strengthening northeasterly airflow over the country – especially the North Island – meaning strong northeast winds over most of the North Island. 
Rain moves onto the North Island from around midday also, becoming heavy for some – particularly in the upper and lower parts of the island – as well as Tasman and the Marlborough Sounds at times.

 

Sunday

Light blue: Showers over much of the North Island – particularly in the west, with a risk of heavy falls – and the whole South Island

The low system moves over the country from west to east, but slowly.
Showers hanging around over much of the North Island and almost all of the South Island may be heavy at times – especially in South Canterbury.

– 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