Rotorua's Morgan Maclean, 9, cools off at Tikitapu (BlueLake) yesterday. Photo / Stephen Parker
Rotorua's Morgan Maclean, 9, cools off at Tikitapu (BlueLake) yesterday. Photo / Stephen Parker
Rotorua residents planning a Christmas Day barbecue or trip to the beach are looking pretty safe.
As of last night, MetService was forecasting the big day to be mainly fine, with light winds and the chance of an afternoon shower. A high of 22C is forecast.
The hot weather ofthe past few days has seen locals and visitors basking in glorious sunshine and that's expected to continue today with a high of 24C.
The bad news is a front approaching from the south is expected to cross the country tomorrow evening bringing a few showers and light rain to Rotorua. The temperatures will cool slightly as the front comes through and the wind turns to the south.
Met Service meteorologist Claire Flynn said a ridge building in the Tasman Sea would move over the country from tomorrow.
"There may be the odd shower around as convection heating builds up from a warm day, but most people won't see it. Wednesday to Friday will be mainly fine with light winds."
Looking further ahead, the weekend is shaping up to be a cracker - great news for those heading to the lakes, beaches or Sunday's Rotorua races but maybe not so good for those intending to join the crowds at the Boxing Day sales.
Saturday and Sunday are expected to be fine and still with highs of 25C and 26C respectively, before the rain returns on Tuesday.
