Big wave weekend predicted

Swells up to four metres have been forecast around the country this weekend.

MetService spokesman Bob McDavitt said a low developing over Christchurch would create southerly swells up to four metres along the east coast.

Another front coming off the Tasman Sea will create similar swells along the west coast, particularly north of New Plymouth, he said.

Earlier, Horizons Regional Council said waves of around 4 to 4.5 metres were expected along the west coast from Waitotara to Otaki and up to seven metres along the east coast from Cape Turnagain to Mataikona over the weekend.

Mr McDavitt said the swells were the result of a "nice wintry storm".

- NZPA