MetService meteorologist Samkelo Magwala told the Herald while the morning would feel “real cold for most places”, it would not be as chilly as recent cold snaps.
“As the day progresses, there’ll be lots of fine spells, but due to the nature that the wind is coming from the south, it will feel colder,” he said.
Magwala said today would mark a turning point before generally fine weather arrives across much of the country on Thursday.
Strong winds affecting eastern parts of both islands were forecast to calm down before dawn.
Showers around Gisborne and Māhia carried a risk of small hail overnight, but were forecast to ease as people woke this morning.
Fine conditions for Auckland
Aucklanders are waking to 8C temperatures ahead of a fine day, with an expected high of 13C.
Wellington is currently sitting at 7C, with a high of 10C expected.
A few isolated showers are possible during the morning before easing, although the chance of a shower will remain during the day.
Christchurch is waking to 7C this morning, with occasional shower set to clear this afternoon and a high of 12C.
Warmer weather on the horizon
Looking ahead, tomorrow is expected to be generally fine across both islands as a ridge of high pressure takes hold.
Temperatures will then begin gradually rising from Friday before a more noticeable warm-up arrives.
“Going into the weekend, we have a front that is moving through, which will bring northwesterlies, mostly in the eastern parts of the country, especially in the South Island, bringing that warm air,” Magwala said.
“As early as Friday, there’s that gradual warming up, but the noticeable one will be Saturday, Sunday.”