Photo: MetService
Most of New Zealand can expect wet and windy weather this weekend.
Heavy rain and strong winds are forecasted to move up the country, with several warnings in place for the South Island.
MetService has issued heavy rain watches for parts of South Island's west on Saturday.
- Ranges of Tasman northwest of Motueka
- Buller
- Ranges of the Grey District
- Headwaters of the Canterbury Lakes and Rivers
- Headwaters of the Otago Lakes and Rivers
- Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound
The east of the South Island can expect sunny and mostly clear skies thanks to a high-pressure system still hanging around.
There is also a strong wind watch in place for Canterbury High Country from Saturday, as a low-pressure system arrives in southern New Zealand on Saturday and then moves north by Sunday.
"The wind and rain are forecast to decrease in severity before moving onto the North Island by Sunday", MetService meteorologist Oscar Shiviti said.
But Shiviti said there was some good news, with nights expected to be less chilly due to warmer airmass from the northwest, which will provide a break from the frosts experienced this week.
He warned Thursday and Friday remained the best bet for any outdoor plans, particularly in the eastern regions.
"Rethinking any weekend plans and taking advantage of the better weather the next couple of days before conditions worsen," Shiviti said.
However, Napier residents can expect sunny skies for the Hawke's Bay Marathon on Saturday.
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