Hail and thunderstorms on the cards for Auckland

Heavy rain, gales, hail and thunderstorms are all on the cards for Auckland. Photo / Chris Loufte

Heavy rain, gales, hail and thunderstorms are all on the cards for Auckland today.

A severe weather watch for potential southwest gales was in place for Auckland this morning, MetService meteorologist Chelsea Glue said.

There was also a chance of some thunderstorms earlier today.

"For Auckland there will be showers, possibly heavy and thundery with hail. It is going to be quite strong today."

Potential thunderstorms and hail would become more frequent tonight, Ms Glue said.

"It's going to get worse."

However, remaining showers would clear in the morning and Saturday should be a "much better day", she said.

Meanwhile, a showery southwest flow would effect the whole county today.

The only area to escape some rain today was likely to be the Bay of Plenty, she said.

Ms Glue said in particular, areas of the west would see showers, with a few also stretching over to the east.

"It looks like there is a bit of an easing trend, but we have got a bit of a low crossing over the South Island which could bring a few more showers to eastern areas this afternoon."

Looking ahead to the weekend most of the country could expect an "easing clearing trend".

"Except for the south of the South Island, they will get some more rain coming in tomorrow evening."