Break out summer gear for weekend
Togs and flip-flops at the ready, eastern New Zealand — a blast of summer heat is coming your way.
Temperatures will soar 8C above average for eastern North Island centres — with temperatures in the mid to high 20s for spots on the east coast of both islands.
And the rest of the country isn’t looking too shabby either this Labour Weekend, with at least paddle-worthy sunny weather on the way for most.
That was thanks to the strong and chilly southwesterly winds which buffeted the country over the past couple of weeks finally getting the shove from an incoming nor’wester.
“[This wind change] is going to show how much temperature and weather in New Zealand is affected by wind,” MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris said.
“For example, it’s going from 15C in Timaru yesterday to 26C today. That’s quite a jump.”
Blenheim would also reach 25C tomorrow, Dunedin 23C and Christchurch 22C.
On Sunday Gisborne, Hastings and Wairoa were forecast to enjoy a high of 27C, Ferris said.
“That’s 8C higher than normal for this time of year.”
Other areas would be milder, but still enjoy a welcome change from the cooler temperatures, he said.
“On the whole it’s a nice weekend for New Zealand. And today is the best day for the whole country. It’s basically dry everywhere.”
Aucklanders can expect a bit of cloud and sunshine over the long weekend with temperatures reaching 20C tomorrow and Monday. It’s perfect for visiting the Tuia 250 Voyage flotilla, which sailed into the city yesterday and included activities and presentations at Princes Wharf today, tomorrow and Monday morning.
Heart of the City chief executive Viv Beck also encouraged Aucklanders and visitors to return to the city centre after the SkyCity International Convention Centre fire drove thousands out of downtown this week.
Tomorrow is looking to be the hottest day of the weekend for many nearby centres too with Hamilton getting up to 21C tomorrow and Whanga¯rei and Tauranga peaking at 23C.