Today (Thursday) the upper North Island sees squally thunderstorms with very gusty winds and hail as a low pressure system crosses quickly overhead. MetService has a Strong Wind Watch in place for Northland this afternoon and evening.

MetService Meteorologist Michael Pawley adds, “Strong gusts are expected with these thunderstorms in this pocket of unstable air. The most significant activity will be in the second half of the day. Our experts are keeping a close eye on it.”

On Friday, strong southwesterly winds arrive as the low pressure system blows off to the east. For most, this means the arrival of clear skies and dry conditions, but rain will persist for Southland and Westland.

However, for the lower South Island, these winds drag cooler temperatures, showers, and even snow falling as low as 600m on Friday. This will be welcome news for avid skiers and snowboarders but is likely to affect alpine roads in the South Island including Milford Road, Crown Range and Lindis Pass. With the first day of meteorological winter on Sunday, we’ll be seeing more of this.

MetService has a Strong Wind Watch for Hawke’s Bay and the Tararua District, as well as Southland, including Southern Fiordland, Clutha, Dunedin and Stewart Island from Friday afternoon.

Michael details “There is a high chance that these will be upgraded to Orange Warnings. Winds will peak on Saturday, so tie down your trampoline and drive carefully if you’re heading away for the long weekend.”

For those planning a beach getaway, these winds will build large southwest swells which will be felt throughout the weekend. The most exposed coastlines include the lower and western South Island, and the western North Island all the way up to Northland.

Michael notes “Monday will be the pick of the long weekend. The winds look to calm so it’ll be the best day to head outdoors.”

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