MetService forecasters are expecting a high to spread across New Zealand this week.

During Tuesday, a weakening front over central New Zealand should move northwards. A high is expected to form over the South Island.

"Strong west to northwest winds over the southern North Island should ease during Tuesday morning," says a MetService spokesperson, "but there is moderate confidence that a wind warning will be in place for Central Hawke's Bay, Wairarapa and Wellington during the early part of the day."

Mid-week, the high should spread over most of the country by early Wednesday.

"There is minimal risk of severe weather."

The high is expected to remain over the country during Thursday and there continues to be minimal risk of severe weather.

On Friday, the high remains over the country but a front approaching from the Tasman Sea is expected to strengthen the winds over the southern South Island. There is low confidence that a wind warning will be required in Fiordland.