Warmer temperatures are expected for the rest of the week as a high-pressure system persists over parts of the country.

Most areas will be warmer than average for November, with some notable standouts, the MetService said in its latest weather update.

“Christchurch should be the warmest of the main centres today [Thursday], with their high of 28C soaring over their average November maximum of 19.4C, while Ashburton and Kaikōura won’t be far behind with 27C and 26C maximums respectively,” meteorologist Alwyn Bakker said.

That summery feel won’t be all sunshine, however.

“Warmer temperatures increase the chance of afternoon showers triggered by daytime heat through a process called convection.

“In the same way turning the heat up on a saucepan of water starts it bubbling, heating the air close to the surface makes it rise. If there’s moisture in the atmosphere, convection can trigger showers, even thunderstorms if there’s enough warming at the surface.”

As temperatures ramp up and stay high over the weekend, parts of the North Island, including the Bay of Plenty, are likely to see thunderstorms, especially on Sunday.

Conditions are set to be good for the second T20 cricket match between the Black Caps and the West Indies at Eden Park tonight.

“Northeasterly winds will be dying out, and although there’s the chance of a shower in the region, it’s unlikely the stadium will be affected,” Bakker predicted.

Looking ahead to the start of next week, rain and strong winds are possible as a front is expected to move up the South Island and on to the lower North Island on Monday.

“While it’s too early to talk about Watches and Warnings for this event, there is a possibility that some may be issued for the Westland ranges and northern Fiordland.”