A spell of pleasant weather in the region is expected to be interrupted by gale-force winds at the weekend.
WeatherWatch.co.nz forecaster Aaron Wilkinson said the forecast for today and tomorrow was mostly sunny, with temperatures up to 21C.
However, there was a possibility of gale-force winds hampering the region on Saturday. Mr Wilkinson said the winds, which could reach speeds of 63km/h, should be the main concern for the region this week.
MetService meteorologist John Law said locals who planned to be out and about on Saturday should keep an eye on the latest weather forecast and be prepared for it to be blustery from as early as Friday night onwards.
Rain was also expected on Saturday, spreading down to the coast from the ranges, with heavier rainfall expected on higher ground. Wind and rain would ease on Saturday night more sunny weather expected for Sunday, Mr Law said.