Photo: Metservice/screenshot
The festive season is here - and it is looking wet for most of the country on Christmas Day.
MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane told Morning Report that a southerly working its way up the country would hover over the motu this weekend.
"In the lead-up towards Christmas it is unfortunately an unsettled one. I know at this time of year there is a lot of travel happening, a lot of planning for the big day."
The southerly was a "bit of a throwback" to winter, bringing rain on Friday and unsettled weather for this weekend, she said.
"We have a low pressure system just east of the country and that has been feeding through south-easterly winds. I know here in Wellington they can be quite biting and chilly, and a lot of places have been feeling that."
MetService issued a heavy rain warning for Bay of Plenty from the early hours of Saturday morning to 9pm.
People in the region should expect 80mm-120 mm in periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms, especially inland and about the eastern ranges. Peak rates of 25 to 40 mm/h were possible in localised downpours.
But a bright spot is on the horizon - literally - with a westerly system on the way.
"It won't be as cold or cool as it we've had recently but it is still looking like it will bring some wet weather with it.
"Christmas Eve looks to be the best day to do any of those outdoor activities that people have in mind."
The East Coast and Hawke's Bay were likely to be the best bet for beach activities on Christmas Day, Makgabutlane said.
It was too early to say whether more settled weather would arrive in time for New Year's Eve events, and the low-pressure system would "take its time" moving off the country.
"It is still a long way away and even for Christmas Day definitely keep your plans and keep your eye on the forecast as we come closer to the day."
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