New Zealand faces a wintry week ahead with temperatures forecast to plunge below freezing.
MetService says we're in for a mix of "biting cold winds and crisp, frosty mornings" - with the coldest still to come.
The chilly wave of weather comes from several cold fronts sweeping out of the south, bringing rain and a noticeable drop in temperatures.
"While the eastern parts of both main islands are likely to receive the bulk of the rainfall, brisk southerly winds will make their presence felt across the lower and eastern South Island, as well as the lower North Island," MetService said on Facebook.
In the South Island, Monday and Thursday are set to have the coldest daytime temperatures, with Thursday morning a particularly icy start in the far south.
The North Island will also see temperatures drop, with the chilliest starts on Wednesday and Friday.
MetService says this will reach even the typically temperate regions of Northland and Auckland.
"Keep those blankets handy!" it added.
A NIWA graphic shows the odds for temperatures to dip below 0C. This means frost will be common across the country, with some experiencing frost lingering well into the morning hours.
But despite the frosty conditions, MetService said there is a silver lining: "Brighter days are on the horizon, especially on Tuesday and Friday," it said.
