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A blustery and unsettled weather pattern is set to carry Auckland and Waikato through the final days of 2025, with MetService warning of strong winds, heavy rain and changeable conditions as New Year’s Eve approaches.
A Strong wind watch is in place for Auckland and Great Barrier Island from 9am to 2pm today, (Monday), with southeast winds expected to approach severe gale strength in exposed areas. MetService says there is a moderate chance the watch could be upgraded to a warning.
The strong winds come as a rainband moves south across the North Island, bringing wet conditions to many upper-North Island regions. While the heaviest rain is focused further east, Waikato is also experiencing unsettled conditions as the system tracks south.
MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons says the rainband currently affecting the top of the North Island will gradually ease as it moves south, offering some improvement heading into New Year’s Eve.
“Conditions do ease toward New Year’s as the rainband sinks further south,” Lyons says.
However, she warns the wind will be a key factor for many regions, including Waikato and Auckland.
“As if a soggy tent wasn’t bad enough, a loud rustling one is also on the cards for many as gale southeasterlies spread over the North Island,” Lyons says.
Waikato, along with Coromandel, Taranaki and areas further south, is under an Orange Strong wind warning, while Auckland remains under a watch.
“Winds are expected to be strongest in exposed areas, such as hilltops. But it’s a different direction than we’re used to, so some areas that normally feel sheltered could catch the stronger winds,” Lyons says.
Drivers with high-sided vehicles such as campervans are being urged to take extra care, particularly on open roads and bridges.
Looking ahead to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, MetService says showers are likely to continue across much of the country as a low-pressure system lingers to the west. While Auckland and Waikato may see drier spells, conditions remain changeable rather than settled.
“For now, it’s definitely a time to have a plan B for New Year’s festivities and keep a close eye on the forecast and radar,” Lyons says.
MetService expects more settled weather to develop as 2026 begins but is urging people to stay up to date with the latest forecasts over the coming days.
