A ridge of high pressure is extending across the North Island this week, bringing mostly fine weather for the start of the working week.

In its latest weather update, the MetService says a cold front and associated rain-band will be moving northwards over the South Island.

The weather organisation reported that a period of heavy rain is likely about Fiordland and the Westland ranges with the front, and there is low confidence that accumulations over Fiordland will be enough to warrant a warning.

For Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty, the weather is expected to be generally fine with northerlies, until Friday when rain is forecasted to ease to showers and light breezes.

On Wednesday, February 26, the front is expected to weaken and move across the southern and central North Island, while a ridge of high pressure spreads over the South Island. There is minimal risk of severe weather affecting the country, said a statement from the MetService.

"The ridge of high pressure is forecast to expand on Thursday to cover most of the country and there is minimal risk of severe weather.

"On Friday, February 28, high pressure is set to continue over most of New Zealand, and there is minimal risk of severe weather," said a MetService spokesperson.