New Zealand's sky is set to be lit up with a "super massive" Aurora overnight.

National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) said a "super massive" Aurora is expected to pass over the country, likely between Wednesday night and Thursday day.

Aurora expert and photographer Paul Le Comte explained that the aurora will likely be at full strength during daylight hours, reducing visibility to those interested in capturing a glimpse of the natural phenomenon.

He said tonight's Aurora could be the biggest since St Patrick's Day in 2015.

Le Comte says the further south you are the better the visibility, however he believes the Aurora should be visible from as far north as Wairarapa south.

"If it's bigger than expected, you'll see air glow as far north as Auckland," he told Newshub.

"Make sure you're away from town or city lights," he advised.

The weather isn't expected to help viewers with cloudy skies and a full moon likely to be present this evening.

He said for viewers to head away from the city and that the Aurora could pass over the country in a matter of hours.