Thunderstorms to hit Central North Island, Waikato

Thunderstorms are likely to hit the country again today, with the Central North Island and Waikato this time in the gun.

However, the weekend is looking a lot brighter, and warmer, with temperatures set to get into the mid-20s in many parts of the country.

MetService duty forecaster Amy Rossiter said there is a moderate risk of thunderstorms in the Central North Island - from Tongariro north, including Waikato, Waitomo, Taumarunui and Taupo.

The thunderstorms will bring heavy rain and hail - much akin to what lashed Auckland earlier in the week.

Aucklanders won't be getting a lot of sunshine today though as there is still a risk of heavy showers this afternoon. Hawke's Bay and Northland could also get a few showers.

The chance of isolated heavy showers and hail under thunderstorms remains over inland areas of the North Island today as a little sun breaks through the cloud fueling afternoon convection. For more https://t.co/hnwmGxU1gR ^AC pic.twitter.com/tq0rLNYMUb

— MetService (@MetService) November 15, 2017

In the south, Nelson Lakes and Marlborough are also in line for a few showers this afternoon but the rest of the country is looking fine.

On Friday, a low looks set to skim the top of the country bringing a few showers to Northland but the rest of the country should be more settled.

Wanaka and Alexandra will each reach 24C today, with Masterton not far behind on 23C.

On Saturday, the temperatures are set to rise even further.

Taumarunui and Te Kuiti will both boast 25C on Saturday, with 26C forecast for Te Kuiti on Monday.

There will be scattered showers and strong easterlies for Northland, Auckland, Hawke's Bay and Gisborne but a ridge of high pressure looks set to make itself at home over the rest of the country.

However, even if it does get wet, it will remain warm with most areas nestling in early 20C or higher weather.

As of this morning, Weatherwatch.co.nz says the most severe weather risks will remain out at sea for this weekend due to the high pressure system stopping it from getting too close to the country.

The possible worst hit area on Saturday could be Northland.

"Those in northern New Zealand should keep up to date with all forecasts, weather videos and news stories to ensure nothing changes. These 50/50 set-ups can often involve an incredibly fine line of distance between heavy rain and completely dry - as we experienced last weekend."

TODAY'S TEMPERATURES

• Auckland 20C
• Hamilton 20C
• Tauranga 18C
• Wellington 17C
• Christchurch 21C
• Dunedin 17C