Mainly Fine Weekend, Heavy Rain Set to Lash New Zealand Next Week

As New Zealand braces for a dramatic weather shift, the weekend is expected to bring a brief respite with mainly fine conditions, before a powerful storm system arrives from the tropics, threatening severe weather from Monday.

Residents across the country have already felt the chill of this year’s coldest temperatures, with -7.5°C recorded at Dunedin Airport and -3.9°C in Masterton. Even in typically warmer regions like Auckland, frost has been reported in sheltered areas, with temperatures continuing to drop throughout the week.

MetService forecaster Devlin Lyden noted that the weekend will see a gradual transition from the current cold spell to milder conditions, with some light showers and cloud cover expected in certain regions.

"As we get through the day, there may be a few showers on the east coast of Northland. Showers down in Fiordland gradually spread north up the West Coast, and they may affect southern areas like Haast," Lyden said.

For the rest of the country, however, the weekend is looking bright, with sunny skies and relatively calm conditions. Lyden urged residents to enjoy the mild weather before the storm system arrives.

"As we get into Monday, showers begin to build up the West Coast, and there will potentially be some heavy falls along the West Coast on Monday evening. Then into Tuesday, we’re expecting some more widespread heavy rain, with places like the West Coast of the South Island continuing to get heavy rain, but also the Tasman district," he added.

The warning comes as the Tasman region, which was recently hit by a state of emergency due to flooding, is once again preparing for the worst. Mayor Tim King said river levels are still high, and another deluge could bring devastating consequences.

"We've had seven days of clear skies and frosts since the last deluge, but that's unlikely to be enough to prevent further damage if more heavy rain falls," King said.

Lyden also warned that Northland will be at risk of heavy rain, with widespread downpours expected on Tuesday. He emphasized the importance of staying informed and following updates from MetService.

"Generally speaking, Tuesday will be wet for everyone. Warnings and watches for heavy rain and strong winds may be issued, and people are advised to keep up with the latest information," Lyden said.

Residents are being urged to prepare for the coming storm, with the potential for flooding, road closures, and property damage. Local authorities and emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents.

As the nation waits for the storm to arrive, the weekend offers a chance to enjoy the last stretch of dry and mild weather before the heavy rains begin.