A week that is starting dry and calm for most, is set to feature heavy rain and strong winds.

This will bring a reprieve to recent cold and frosty mornings.

Apart from a few showers mainly in the upper North Island and the northeastern areas of the South Island, MetService is forecasting fine weather and light southerly winds today and tomorrow.

This means that crispy overnight temperatures are still on the cards for today, said a spokesperson for the weather organisation.

"However, this will change on Wednesday as a front accompanied by warmer and strong winds from the north is expected to move over New Zealand to mark the last week of school term.

"Widespread rain is forecast in the western areas of the South Island early on Wednesday, gradually spreading to the east during the day."

Heavy rain and strong winds are expected from Wednesday onwards. Photo / MetService

Heavy rain watches have been issued for Fiordland and the Westland District, especially about the ranges.

Even away from areas of heavy rain, these wet and windy conditions will still be felt.

A strong wind watch has been issued for Queenstown Lakes District, Central Otago and Southland, with wind gusts expected to reach 100 km/h in exposed places, said the MetService.

On Thursday, these rainy and windy conditions are expected to move into the North Island, affecting the southern and the western areas up to 12pm.

Similar to the South Island, as the conditions become widespread, some places may get hit by heavy rain, and severe gale winds in exposed places.

"Warmer overnight temperatures will precede these conditions, where minimum temperatures in the mid-teens are forecast.

"While the rain and wind will ease for some, adverse conditions are expected to last into the weekend in some parts of the country, with snow possible in Otago and Canterbury on Saturday.

"MetService is monitoring the situation, and more weather warnings will be issued and updated through the period."