The weekend is turning on the first taste of winter for many

Chilly temperatures are expected across the country, with overnight lows of two to three degrees in the South Island remaining cool throughout the day.

Meteorologist John Law says most places in the South Island will stay below 19 degrees, while the North Island will reach around around 21.

He says the North Island will also see a cold night tonight.

But Law adds despite the cooler weekend, there is plenty of dry, bright weather in store.