MetService is forecasting a wet start to the weekend, but says conditions should be nice for most on Monday and Tuesday.
MetService meteorologist Clare O’Connor said wet weather would set in from tomorrow in central and northern parts of the North Island and continue into the weekend “for almost the entire country”.
“While there will be drier spots through the weekend, rain or showers are expected right across the country at various points of the weekend – make sure you are ready for all conditions, even if you are staying home,” she said.
A heavy rain watch remained in place for Gisborne/Tairawhiti and Hawke’s Bay north of SH5 until this evening.
Periods of heavy rain were expected, with amounts potentially approaching warning criteria, especially about the Wairoa District.
She said cold, southeasterly winds and wet conditions were expected tomorrow over the eastern South Island as low pressure sinks southwards.
O’Connor said those waiting for a window of “ideal travelling weather” before the holidays would be waiting until at least Monday.
“The best weather in the lead up to Christmas Day looks to be the two days preceding the holiday, with sunny blue skies and dry days set for most on Monday and Tuesday.”
However, she said the outlook indicated a wet Christmas Day for the west of the South Island and potentially the western North Island also.