The weather might not look the best but Rotorua is in for a busy Labour Day weekend as out-of-towners descend on the city.
Rotorua Association of Motelliers spokesman Steve Osborne said as far as he was aware Rotorua's motels were doing well.
"There aren't the same number of three-night bookings we traditionally get for Labour Weekend but the people are still coming."
He said many people were booking in for only two nights as opposed to the usual three. "I think it's just a sign of the tough economic times," Mr Osborne said.
Local gardeners will also be busy with Labour Day Weekend the traditional time to plant vegetables.
Manager of Oderings Nurseries and Garden Cafe Kathy Hight said this weekend was the best time for planting.
"The amount of vegetable seedlings being sold is unbelievable. It's also a lot warmer than it was compared to last year so everything is growing well," she said.
A MetService spokesman said Rotorua's weather would be wet and windy today and tomorrow but was expected to begin clearing up Sunday afternoon and Monday was expected to be fine.
Temperatures should hover around the 17C mark all weekend, including Monday, and get down to about 7C overnight Saturday and Sunday.
"There could be some early showers Monday but it will turn into a fine afternoon."
Rotorua's Reading Cinema complex manager Adam Morrison said staff were bracing for a busy weekend of indoor activities with rain expected.
Senior Sergeant Denton Grimes of the Rotorua Strategic Traffic Unit said: "If the weather turns nasty then I urge motorists to adjust their driving to the conditions, watch their following distances, and most of all be patient."
He said the Traffic Alcohol Group (TAG) would be out in force.
"It's better to get home five minutes late than not at all and if you are having a few drinks, then arrange an alternative way home or use a sober driver.
"If you are travelling long distances make sure you take a break and pull over for a rest if you become tired or fatigued," Mr Grimes said.
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