Warmer, windier weather for last month of winter

File photo / Richard Robinson

The last month of winter could be more like spring, with warmer, windier weather, forecasters say.

The incoming weather pattern for the month ahead looks similar to July's outgoing one, WeatherWatch said today as it released its August outlook.

Temperatures were "likely to be above average" for the month.

"We seem to be seeing an early spring pattern, defined by windy westerlies, warmer than average temperatures but still some short wintry bursts," head weather analyst Philip Duncan said.

"The first half of August sees a lot of windy weather, especially for central, eastern and southern parts of New Zealand. We have a high in the mix in the second week though, so a few days of calm are also there."

But despite the warmer temperatures those hoping to hit the slopes won't be disappointed.

"Ski fields in both islands should get a little more snow this month despite the warmer forecast, with colder southerlies moving over the South Island and North Island as early as this Sunday and Monday."

There is also a potential for another heavy rain event for northern parts of the North Island, Mr Duncan said.

It could hit around the middle of the month "as an anticyclone potentially blocks a sub-tropical and very wet northerly wind flow".

"It's too early to lock in, but it's not too early to keep an eye on it, especially on top of recent flood events in Northland."

Met Service said its August outlook would be released early next week.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR:

* Windy westerlies.

* Above average temperatures.

* Short wintry bursts.

* More snow for the ski fields with colder southerlies.

* Potentially another significant rainfall event for northern areas.