KEY POINTS:
Expect an icy night or two over the weekend, but no new storms are on the horizon.
The MetService says a cold, showery southerly will begin moving up the country today, but will gradually clear, bringing bluer skies and lighter winds.
"We're expecting milder conditions on Monday as a northerly comes in," said severe weather forecaster Ian Miller.
He urged motorists planning to go away for the weekend to be aware that the cold conditions could lead to ice on the roads.
He said the southerly would push its way up through Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Auckland and Northland tomorrow.
Eastern Canterbury and Marlborough will get about 10cm of snow down to about 500 metres in the ranges by mid-afternoon.
The snow showers will give-way to light falls in the afternoon down to about 200 metres before clearing on Saturday morning when icy conditions are expected.
Radio Network Head weather analyst Philip Duncan said the southerly will bring a chill to everyone over the weekend.
"Some regions have enjoyed temperatures in the late teens lately, but this weekend will be much cooler with a number of North Island places struggling to reach 12 or 13 degrees," he said.
Mr Duncan said some snow flurries are possible on the Rimutaka Highway and the Desert Road. He does not expect road closures he urges motorists to take care and watch for ice.
- NZ HERALD STAFF
