Gale force winds and blustery conditions from the westerly quarter will dominate New Zealand’s weather this weekend predicts WeatherWatch.co.nz.

A strong, warm, spring weather pattern will bring blustery and sometimes dangerous winds to several regions.

Head weather analyst Philip Duncan says regions most exposed to the strong winds will be eastern and central areas.  “Canterbury, Marlborough, Wellington, Wairarapa and Hawkes Bay will receive some big gusts, but so too will Auckland”.

Mr Duncan says for the most part the winds will be below damaging thresholds but they are still dangerous. “The two biggest dangers with these gales will be falling branches and difficult driving conditions”.

WeatherWatch.co.nz advises truck drivers especially to be aware of the blustery westerly winds, which could make towing large trailers difficult.  Those on bikes, motorcycles and high sided vehicles should also take extreme care.

“People, especially in cities, should be looking up to ensure they aren’t standing under dangerous trees if the winds are blowing hard”.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says the windy weather means it will be warm for some areas with main centres in the east expected to climb into the low to even mid 20s today and possibly again over the weekend.

As of 11am it was already over 22 degrees across parts of Canterbury and Otago.

While windy weather will kick off next week WeatherWatch.co.nz believes lighter winds will move in later in the week and ahead of next weekend,

– WeatherWatch.co.nz