A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Auckland and parts of the North Island on Thursday afternoon.
Metservice said the thunderstorms are due to a very humid and unstable northwest airstream which lies over the North Island.
"Isolated thunderstorms are expected for central and northern North Island regions today," MetService meteorologist Ashlee Parkes said.
"We currently have two severe thunderstorm watches active, so it is best to keep up to date with the forecasts and take extra care when venturing outside."
They have issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Auckland City, Rodney, Gulf and Albany from 12:09pm to 12:52pm.
Metservice has also put out two Severe Thunderstorm Watches; one for western areas from Northland southwards to Taumarunui, and another for areas further southeast.
There is also a moderate risk of localised downpours.
A low risk of thunderstorms also covers Taranaki, near Whanganui, Manawatu, and Wairarapa.
MetService is forecasting that most areas across New Zealand will see wet conditions over the rest of the week.
For Kiwis struggling with the humid nights, Metservice says the front will move off the country on Sunday.
"This cooler change means less muggy nights and therefore better sleeping conditions for Aotearoa," Parkes said.
