People are being urged to make the most of the fine weather today, before the forecast Southern Ocean storms move over New Zealand.

WeatherWatch.co.nz says a high pressure is sliding off New Zealand slowly today as Southern Ocean storms move closer to us.

"These storms will remain offshore but from Sunday to this coming Thursday, expect westerly gales to surge up and down the country at times and heavy rain on the West Coast – with showers into the western North Island.

"So make the most of Saturday!"

WeatherWatch says temperatures today will be warm nationwide with many places above normal thanks to the building nor'west flow and it will be a mild night tonight too.

"Overnight and into Sunday winds pick up.

"A series of storms in the Southern Ocean are about to put Summer on hold for around five days in a number of regions," says the weather organisation.

"The lower South Island will go from being in the mid to late 20s to the perhaps not even making the teens next week in some areas.

"Strong winds through eastern and central areas.

"Heavy rain on the West Coast and even some snow on the mountains."