Winter storm has more blast to deliver

Winds are forecast to strengthen for many regions today, as a "moderate winter storm" continues to bring squally showers and snow to low levels.

WeatherWatch.co.nz has predicted winds will build for the South Island today and into tomorrow with a chance of severe gales in areas that missed them yesterday.

"The low is changing shape, starting to lose that perfectly circular shape and that basically means the strong winds that were once near the centre will ease a little but stretch over a much greater space," said Philip Duncan.

"There are a couple of things going on here, firstly the deep low to the south of New Zealand and secondly the large high over Australia - both are contributing to the blustery conditions."

Mr Duncan said while it will be windy in many regions today, the winds were likely to strengthen significantly around coastal parts of southern New Zealand, mainly around the Catlins and coastal Otago.

He said strong winds may also push into Canterbury, especially Banks Peninsula, but Wellington could remain relatively sheltered.

Winds will blow into Wellington from the west and north-west which will then become southerly tomorrow.

"Despite the nor'wester it's not likely to be warm with a high of just 11C for [today]," said Mr Duncan.

More snow is forecast for the Desert Rd, the lower South Island and along the Southern Alps.

MetService forecast strong southwesterlies, bringing heavy showers and a high of 14C to Auckland today, clearing but cooling tomorrow.

The snowfalls around Queenstown have created an ideal backdrop for the Winter Festival, midway through the 10-day celebrations.

Snow sports fans at Coronet Peak this week saw Australian model and reality TV star Lara Bingle and New Zealand model and professional snowboarder Hayley Holt hit the slopes for Bingle's new TV show.

Ms Bingle's entourage said she enjoyed her time in the Wakatipu area filming for Air New Zealand. The airline's campaign is aimed at enticing "Kiwi sceptics" from across the Tasman and make them fall in love with the country.

- Otago Daily Times