Beach-goers make the most of sunny spell ahead of a wet Christmas

Jana Gallagher and Rochelle Sanderson made most of the sun yesterday. Photo / Greg Bowker

Jana Gallagher, 16, and Rochelle Sanderson, 15, were making the most of the summer sun at Takapuna Beach yesterday.

Auckland was treated to a high of 22C yesterday, while Metservice expected the mercury to top 23 in the city today.

While many parts of the North Island have enjoyed warm weather over the past few days, conditions for the next few days look less pleasant.

Metservice expected Christmas Day to be a wet one, with rain in the morning easing to showers in the afternoon and a high of 22.

However, there will some reprieve on Boxing Day. Those heading to the beach or the Ellerslie races can look forward to a high of 23, although there may be a few patchy showers hanging around.

5 ways to spend Boxing Day

1. The New Zealand Herald Christmas Carnival Boxing Day Races
Join the institution that's been running for more than 150 years. Fashion, champagne, glamour and even a bit of horse racing. Ellerslie Racecourse from 10am.

2. Parnell Baths
Pray for good weather then head to Parnell Baths to enjoy it - it's the first summer of free entry for children. Open from 10am at Judges Bay Rd.

3. Shopping
If you were smart you would have left the Christmas shopping until Boxing Day. The sales start now so buy at much better prices than the rest of the year (until the next sales).

4. Cricket
Can the Black Caps carry their stunning test form into the one-day arena? They take on the West Indies at Eden Park in the first of the one-day internationals. The match starts at 2pm.

5. Beach
Take the Herald - or the Herald app on your mobile device - to the beach to keep up with the news and enjoy great summer reading, puzzles, quizzes and more.