This week's turbulent weather looks set to make way for more settled conditions over the weekend.

Last Sunday, temperatures across many parts of the country reached the high twenties before falling with a bump on Monday.

More settled weather will return to the Bay next week.

The return of the cold air brought snow flurries to higher ground in both Islands while heavy thundery showers brought hail to many spots towards the end of the week.

But according to MetService meteorologist John Law, things are about to settle down in time for the weekend as a large area of high pressure envelops New Zealand.

'This high should push the troublesome low pressure area away from the east coast of the North Island early Friday, together with the last of the showers around the Wairarapa,” says John.

'The weather this weekend looks fine across much of the country. As an area of high pressure builds we can expect the skies to clear and some longer spells of sunshine to develop.”

The clearing skies and lighter winds are set to make for some good viewing conditions if you are heading to one of the firework displays lined up over the weekend.

By Sunday, another front should be approaching the South Island and reintroducing cloud and late rain to the West Coast.

However, the return of some warmer air will be welcomed by many after some chilly nights this week.