After some early sunshine, much of the country is having a cloudy start to the long weekend - and rain is on the way.
MetService satellite image showing a cold front lying over southern South Island, and webcam images from around the country. Photo: MetService
A front moving across the country is bringing westerly winds, and rain is spreading up the west coast of the South Island today. A few showers are expected on the Canterbury coast.
There'll be a noticeably cooler feel in the south, compared with the warm temperatures at the start of the weekend.
Here's a lunchtime look at the weekend weather. For all the latest forecasts head to https://t.co/oKYtrokzS2 ^JL pic.twitter.com/oCK7dDp8mE
— MetService (@MetService) October 19, 2017
In the North Island, the eastern and southern areas are getting some early sunshine today, but it's overcast weather for the rest.
Tomorrow the eastern coasts of both islands get the sunniest weather, while rain is expected elsewhere.
Some of the best of the weather is in Hawke's Bay, which is having an extra-long holiday weekend, with its anniversary yesterday.
On Monday wet weather moves onto the Far North and rain is due on the west coasts of both islands, though MetService is forecasting a sunny day for Nelson, Blenheim and Wellington.
"Traditionally, Labour Weekend is also time for many gardeners to plant out frost tender plants such as tomatoes and peppers. Those westerly winds will keep any late frosts at bay, although plants may need some support such as staking," said MetService forecaster Cameron Coutts.
