For many regions of the country, especially those living on the west coast, this week looks on the settled side.

After the rain during the weekend, a quieter week weather-wise will be welcome, says a statement from the MetService.

Showers are forecast for this afternoon.

But those in the north are not out of the woods as two further episodes of rain are forecast.

A low pressure system with an associated rain-band scoots over the far north of the country later Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing rain and the chance of thunderstorms.

'The rain approaching northern parts on Tuesday and Wednesday will be heavy for some places and potentially thundery at times,” says MetService meteorologist Derek Holland.

A second low pressure system crosses the North Island into next weekend, bringing further rain and thunderstorms to northern parts.

'Both low pressure systems rolling across the north this week bring similar weather to people in these regions.” Elsewhere over the country, higher pressure holds sway for much of the week.

'The high pressure lying south of the country, brings a week of southerly winds to those over central parts.”

Cloudier weather is likely for those in the east, as milder southerly breezes work against the warming rays of sunshine, now increasing in strength with the arrival of the spring equinox this Friday 23rd September.

'Many will be looking forward to brighter sunshine and warmer temperatures in coming months as we pass this day on the calendar.”

The sun above TTS Earnslaw on Lake Wakatipu. Supplied photo.

To get the most up to date information on severe weather around the country,or any other forecasts, see metservice.com or on mobile devices at