Sun's out as country set to enjoy chilly but fine weekend

After a fierce mid-week polar blast the country is now set to enjoy a bluebird weekend.

With up to 30cm of snow falling on the southern ski fields, extensive road closures and wild weather toppling trees the country is in for sunny days marked by exceptionally crisp starts.

All weather warnings have now been lifted and Cook Strait ferries had resumed crossings today after towering 8m waves were forecast in the channel last night.

The last of the showers and strong winds pounding the east coast of the North Island are expected to ease later today.

Apart from a weak cold front hurtling up the South Island tonight the country can look forward to a bright weekend.

Plenty of sun around tomorrow but some cool temperatures too. https://t.co/Yjbq0jxdqz ^TA pic.twitter.com/y6wPZ3ArRS

— MetService (@MetService) June 14, 2017

MetService said much of the country would start on a frosty note with many parts of the South Island and the central North Island shivering below zero.

Niwa warned those heading to Waikato for Fieldays should be wary of slippery conditions on the roads. Police say 12,000 people are expected to visit the agricultural show over coming days.

Frosty start if you're heading to @FieldaysNZ tomorrow morn! Drive safe and watch for black ice 🚗 #Fieldays2017 pic.twitter.com/FK7aTrtNoA

— NIWA Weather (@NiwaWeather) June 14, 2017

According to MetService the weak front would move off eastern regions tomorrow followed by fine weather lasting through to Sunday.

Wet weather is set to hit Northland on Monday but not enough to be pose problems.