MetService is forecasting more active spring weather across Aotearoa New Zealand, with showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds on the horizon.

However, for many, Saturday brings a break in the weather and a chance to enjoy the other side of what spring has to offer.  

The western South Island is set for another round of wet conditions.

“Many parts of the West Coast and Fiordland have experienced rain nearly every day this month, with year-to-date rainfall already tracking above average," explained MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane.

"The coming days, including Thursday, Friday, and the weekend, are likely to follow the same pattern with more rain from the west and the possibility of heavier falls during thunderstorms.”

While the wet weather is approaching from the west, few areas of the country will manage to escape rain or showers in the days ahead. Thunderstorms are also expected to make an appearance.

In addition to the western South Island, Tasman and the Marlborough Sounds could see thunderstorms on Friday, while much of the North Island, including Auckland, may experience thunderstorms Friday afternoon or evening.

Wellington and the eastern North Island look to be the exceptions. 

Sharp westerly winds have been a common feature of spring 2024 so far and this continues on Thursday and Friday, especially for the North Island.

“Road users, especially those in Auckland, may do well to check any impacts to road conditions on Waka Kotahi NZTA’s website,” Makgabutlane advised.

Saturday brings a brief respite before things pick up again on Sunday. 

“In fact, Saturday is shaping up to be the pick of the weekend, with the strongest winds easing and the wettest weather largely confined to the western South Island.

"At this time of year, it’s always a good idea to make the most of any fine weather, as the next spell of unsettled conditions is never far behind,” Makgabutlane said. 

This seems to ring true, as rain and showers look set to spread northwards up the country on Sunday, bringing a damp period for some to end the weekend.