Wet weather gear is the way to go this weekend, as rain clouds gather and temperatures drop.
A trough over the Tasman Sea will move onto New Zealand over the coming days, and heavy rain is expected to hit first the South and then the North Island.
The New Zealand
Transport Agency (NZTA) stressed high-sided vehicles and motorbikes should take care on the Arthurs Pass to Springfield road, where strong wind warnings are in place.
Wind gusts of 113km/h recorded in the last hour at Alexandra aerodrome. More observations at https://t.co/Yjbq0jxdqz ^Lisa
— MetService (@MetService) April 27, 2017
MetService meteorologist Peter Little said most of the country will get a dousing of rain at least once this weekend.
"Almost all should get rain at some stage over the weekend, and places in the north and west will likely see the largest accumulations," Little said.
"Severe weather warnings and watches for heavy rain and strong winds have been issued for several regions."
Heavy gale warnings are in place for much of the South Island. Westland and Canterbury High Country will experience the worst weather today, which could fell trees, down powerlines and damage unsecured structures.
Rain fall between 90-120mm could hit Westland, south of Otira. People are being warned to watch for rapidly rising rivers and streams as well as surface flooding and slips.
This is what is bringing the rain. More info at https://t.co/Yjbq0jxdqz ^Lisa pic.twitter.com/Un4ckFNEzs
— MetService (@MetService) April 27, 2017
Southland, Southern Lakes, Central Otago, Clutha, Buller, Wellington, Kapiti-Horowhenua and Wairarapa have all been issued weather watches. The west of the South Island and inland parts are expected to receive severe gales.
Roads at higher altitudes throughout the South Island could experience snow on Sunday, so road users are being warned to plan ahead and expect delays or road closures.
Anyone planning to use higher roads should stay tuned to the NZTA website, Facebook and Twitter for updates on closures.
