Monday to Wednesday (2nd to 4th September)

It'll be a rough day on Monday in the South Island, with strong northwesterly winds and some heavy rain, thunderstorms, and snow up high. Things clear up in the morning, but more rain and storms will come back after dark. Mt Ruapehu will have a sunny day with some northwest winds.

Snow will fall in the Southern Lakes early on Tuesday with cooler winds, easing to light flurries and sunshine later in the day. In Canterbury, there will be rain and strong winds until the afternoon when a front brings snow and lighter winds. Mt Ruapehu starts out clear, but heavy rain comes in the afternoon, turning to snow by evening.

Snow clears out of Canterbury early Monday, making for a sunny day at South Island resorts, though some clouds may show up later in the Southern Lakes. Mt Ruapehu will be mostly cloudy with some snow showers in the afternoon, and it might be wet on the lower slopes.

Thursday & Friday (5th & 6th September)

The South Island will be partially cloudy with strengthening northwest winds on Thursday. A front will pass over Thursday night, bringing a light dusting of snow, although it'll be wet on the lower slopes, especially in Canterbury, where only a sprinkling is expected. Skies will clear up early Friday while moderate northwesterlies persist. 

Meanwhile, up Mt Ruapehu, sunny skies and brisk southerlies will prevail on Thursday. Winds will turn southwest on Friday and bring snow showers that will gradually turn to rain.

The weather will turn rough again this weekend and into next week with a return of the active westerly spring pattern. Expect several fronts to bring heavy rain, strong gales, brief cold spells, and occasional light snow. Conditions will vary greatly, so keep an eye on short-term forecasts and be ready for possible disruptions.

Thanks for reading. I'll continue to provide these forecasts every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday throughout the southern hemisphere season.

Mike O'Connor