An active weather system is expected to pave the way for wintry and windy conditions later this week.

The MetService says the complex and slow moving low over the Tasman Sea responsible for the heavy rain at the weekend will continue to bring unsettled weather most of this week.

Media and communications meteorologist Dan Corbett says more showers, some heavy and thundery at times, are likely for western areas of the country today.

The MetService is predicting the odd shower for Tauranga today with those expected to become heavier later this afternoon.

'Tomorrow, bitterly cold Antarctic air will begin to sweep up the country,” says Dan. 'This has the potential to bring significant snow to the south and east of the South Island, as well as central and southern parts of the North Island.

'Largest snowfalls at this stage seem likely about inland Canterbury and Marlborough, while snow may fall to near sea level from Southland to Kaikoura by Thursday.”

Dan says this is a very dynamic weather situation and details about where the snow will fall and how much may well change.

'It will be important to keep up to date with the latest watches and warnings.”