Winter’s here, enjoy
Sunshine makes a welcome return this weekend after a few days of rough winter weather, before another cold change sets in next week.
Storm-force gales hit central New Zealand bringing down trees and powerlines in Wellington. An 11m wave was recorded off the South Island and heavy snow fell in the Ruahine and Tararua ranges and on the Central Plateau.
A high-pressure system sliding across the nation offers a brief respite. For many, while the mornings will be cold over the next few days, the weekend will bring mostly fine weather.
“The weekend as a whole is looking pretty good, it all just turns to custard when you get to Sunday night,” said MetService meteorologist Tom Adams.
Auckland could expect a decent few days, and Hamilton, where the Chiefs play on Sunday, might also remain fine. Said Adams: “It’ll be a bit touch and go there.”
There is good news for those heading to the slopes for skiing over the school holidays.
Ruapehu and the Canterbury skifields have a good base of snow, and half a metre is forecast to fall around the Southern Lakes over the weekend.
“Winter is most definitely here,” said Adams. “There is no reason not to get out and enjoy it.”