A cool and damp start to the new year in New Zealand is projected to extend into the weekend for most parts of the country. According to MetService, while many regions will experience continued wet weather, some areas can anticipate periods of calmer conditions. By Monday, a majority of the South Island and the western parts of the North Island are expected to enjoy a drier and sunnier day.
The South Island is predicted to receive rain today as a cold front advances. A severe thunderstorm watch is in place until 9 p.m. in Nelson, Marlborough, and parts of the Hurunui District. The North Island could also see wet conditions, potentially accompanied by thunderstorms.
Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane explains that brighter weather is in store for the South Island over the weekend, excluding sporadic rain in Marlborough and occasional showers in Canterbury, coastal Otago, and Southland. Meanwhile, Westland and Fiordland are likely to remain among the sunniest areas in the country this weekend.
Southerly winds are anticipated to bring a chill, making an extra layer of clothing essential in the eastern and southern parts of both the North and South Islands. Temperatures are projected to remain below average for this time of year, with highs of 14°C in Wellington on Sunday, 15°C in Christchurch and Dunedin, and 18°C in Napier and Hastings.
By Monday, most of the South Island will experience a calm day with afternoon sunshine, providing a pleasant start for those returning to work. However, the North Island will continue to see the weekend’s pattern into Monday, with cool showers in the south and east and occasional rain elsewhere.
In the Gippsland and Hawke’s Bay areas, rain is expected to persist until Saturday night, with a heavy rain watch issued for the Wairoa District from midday to 11 p.m. on Saturday. Makgabutlane reassures those still on holiday that there will be plenty of dry periods throughout the day to enjoy leisure time.
