Breezy Spring westerlies this week

After about six weeks' absence, westerly conditions are about to become established over New Zealand.

"This looks like spring to me," commented MetService Media and Communications Meteorologist Daniel Corbett. "For some days from late Monday, New Zealand is expected to be in the grip of westerly winds. From time to time, it will be a case of the "roaring forties" over many parts of the country, with strong cool westerly winds expected."

MetService has issued a Severe Weather Watch for possible severe westerly gales in parts of Hawke's Bay, Wairarapa, Clutha and Southland. "Winds are likely to be quite strong in many other places as well," said Corbett. "MetService meteorologists will be watching this closely and it'll be important to stay up to date with the forecast."

Places exposed to the westerly winds will also experience showers - and on Tuesday, possibly a few thunderstorms. Over the next few days, the West Coast of the South Island and south-west parts of the North Island will be likely to experience frequent showers. In contrast, eastern areas from Gisborne to Otago should be dry and sunny much of the time.

Keep up to date with the latest forecasts and any watches/warnings at metservice.com or on mobile devices at m.metservice.com. You can also follow our updates @metservice on Twitter or watch the latest severe weather video on MetService TV.

© Scoop Media