Showers coming at noon

Temperatures for most of the North Island are expected to remain relatively warm, with some in the early to mid-20s. Photo / Michael Craig

Easter egg hunts in Auckland today should be planned for the morning, before showers strike around lunchtime, the MetService says.

Meteorologist Chelsea Glue said a front will move into the central North Island today, with showers becoming common further north.

"It's pretty weak so by the time it gets [to Auckland] there won't be a whole lot of rain left with it, but there will be a few showers," she said.

Temperatures for most of the North Island are expected to remain relatively warm, with some in the early to mid-20s.

Cooler conditions are forecast for the South Island and for Wellington, with people in the capital told to brace for northerly winds which will turn southwest during the day.

While temperatures in the North Island centres remain relatively warm, South Islanders will notice cooling temperatures this weekend.

Tomorrow cloud is expected to move in across much of the North Island, and rain could bring some people's Easter holidays to an abrupt end.

Meanwhile, motorists have been warned to plan ahead as they prepare to return from the long weekend.

The Transport Agency says that should include checking online traffic flows on popular travel routes around Northland, the Auckland region, the Coromandel and Waikato.

"Our travel team have put together graphics which show peak public holiday traffic times to help people decide when to leave home," said NZTA regional performance manager Karen Boyt.

"People can also get the latest road updates by following the Transport Agency on Facebook and Twitter. Picking up your mouse or your smartphone before you pick up your keys and planning your journey could save you a lot of stress and unnecessary time on the road."

Boyt said motorists should also ensure their cars are roadworthy before hitting the road.

"Ensuring your car is fit for the road, staying alert, keeping your speeds down, being courteous and driving to the conditions are all key elements of a safe journey for you and your passengers."

• saferjourneys.govt.nz