A cooler southerly flow continues today across the country but the winds are slowly easing as high pressure gradually builds from the west.

The southerly quarter flow is with New Zealand for Monday and Tuesday but fades away as the high rolls in for Wednesday, Thursday and part of Good Friday, says WeatherWatch.co.nz

"Temperatures today will be below average for this time of the year in the eastern North Island once again and also some parts of Canterbury.

"Tonight, with the exception of Christchurch and Wellington, most main centres are colder than average.

"Of course this is what Autumn is all about, ups and downs, so while it may be technically colder than normal, it is normal to see big swings in temperatures in Autumn."

WeatherWatch,co.nz says warmer weather returns to the country mid to late this week, before the next southerly on Good Friday.