A series of fast-moving weather systems and northwesterlies will bring heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms. Photo: Unsplash / Daoudi Aissa
The country is in for a blustery few days ahead, with MetService saying strong winds and thunderstorms are on the way.
A series of fast-moving weather systems and northwesterlies will bring heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms.
The South Island can expect gusty winds, extending to the western and northern North Island on Thursday afternoon and evening, with possible hail.
MetService forecast improvements on Friday, except for persistent showers and strong winds across the lower North Island and lower South Island.
Hawke's Bay can expect to experience some unseasonably warm temperatures.
Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said to make the most of any sunshine.
"With all the active weather around, it's best to make the most of any good weather when it comes."
Over the weekend, another round of intense wet and windy weather was on the way, forecast for the lower, inland and eastern parts of both main islands.
The Canterbury High Country remained under a strong wind watch, with additional areas potentially being added as the system approaches.
Fiordland, currently under a heavy rain watch, was among several other places in the South Island - including up to Tasman - that can expect to be battered by intense showers.
That rain will spread over the North Island from the afternoon and remain overnight. Waikato, Taranaki, Horowhenua and Kāpiti (including the Tararua Range) can expect a drenching.
By Sunday, wet weather was expected to clear in the afternoon as the system moved off the country.
Makgabutlane said although the bad weather may seem like it was starting to end, the country was not out of the firing line yet.
"The weather seems to be stuck on 'replay' as unsettled conditions continue into the start of next week with yet another wet and windy system on the horizon. The term 'springtime westerlies' is truly living up to its name."