Heavy rain is on the cards for western and central parts of the North Island today, with heavy snow forecast for much of the South Island on Sunday.

MetService said a heavy rain watch was in place for Waikato southwest of Te Awamutu, Waitomo, Taumarunui, western Taupō, Taihape and North Taranaki including the mountain from 9am Saturday to 2am Sunday.

"A front moves slowly northeast over the North Island today," it said.

In the South Island, a heavy snow watch was in place for South Canterbury, Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago.

"During Sunday, a front will move slowly northeast over the lower South Island, preceded by moist northwesterlies and followed by a much colder southeast flow," MetService said.

"The front is expected to bring another period of significant snow."

MetService warned people to prepare for snow, cold temperatures, and possible power outages.

"If you must travel, drive cautiously, and ensure you have snow chains, sleeping bags, warm clothing and emergency items."

Earlier this week, MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said farmers with young stock could be affected by the snow.

In Auckland, showers were expected to turn to rain this afternoon, possibly heavy.

Wellington would also be mostly cloudy with isolated showers, turning to scattered rain this afternoon and evening.

In the South Island, Christchurch could expect light rain, easing to one or two showers by afternoon but remaining mostly cloudy.

And further south in Invercargill, the weather looked fine apart from evening cloud.

However, next week the chilly weather was set to continue with Makgabutlane saying parts of the country "might find ourselves reaching for those cozy jumpers".

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Read more: More wintry weather expected on Sunday