Seas calm sailing into a holiday weekend
More than 140 yachts started the annual PIC Coastal Classic race from Auckland to Russell yesterday under grey skies and a light easterly breeze. The start line was moved from Devonport Wharf to off Narrowneck Beach because of the ra¯hui in place over the Waitemata Harbour following the collapse of a main sewer line in Parnell and subsequent sewage overflows into the ocean at Orakei.
The yachts will be sailing into showers as the long weekend started off on a wet note for the top of the country on the last three-day break before Christmas.
Most regions can expect more settled weather for Labour Weekend, which also marks the start of the surf lifesaving patrol season. MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris said the weather across New Zealand would be a mixed bag.
“Most places in the country will see varied weather across the three-day weekend.
“So if you’re heading away it’s worth packing a raincoat alongside your swimming outfit.”
Ferris said the outlook was more on the “benign side” and not expected to have a large impact on those travelling over the weekend.
“Those heading away today will have a mainly fine run if they stay away from Northland and Southland.
Showers will sprinkle the country today, less so in western areas, and tomorrow is another showery day, with clearer skies around Northland, Westland, Southland and Otago.
“Showers are mainly confined to the North Island on Monday but cloud will be spreading over the South Island.”
By Monday, most regions should be settled and bathed in sunshine.