By Mike Bain. – The Daily Examiner.

New Zealand is currently grappling with a turbulent weather system that has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas across the country.

The Cook Strait, a vital maritime passage connecting the North and South Islands, has been particularly affected, with challenging conditions making crossings difficult for ferries and other vessels.

According to the latest forecasts, a large subtropical low is moving slowly southward over the Tasman Sea, bringing a strong northeast flow and embedded rainbands across New Zealand. This system is expected to persist until Saturday, when it will begin to weaken, allowing a southerly flow to develop over the southern South Island.

Marine weather reports for the Cook Strait indicate rough seas and strong winds, with conditions expected to remain challenging for the next few days.

Easterly winds of up to 30 knots and southerly swells rising to 2 meters have been reported, making navigation hazardous. Ferry operators have issued warnings and cancellations, urging travelers to check updates before planning their journeys.

The MetService predicts that the weather will gradually improve over the weekend, with the low-pressure system weakening and winds easing.

By Sunday, calmer conditions are expected to prevail, providing relief to those affected by the disruptions.

As New Zealanders brace for the remainder of the stormy weather, authorities are advising caution and preparedness, particularly for those traveling across the Cook Strait or in other affected areas.

The resilience of the community and the adaptability of transport services will be key in navigating these challenging times.