Christmas Day is likely to be a wet one for the region.
The MetService long-range forecast isn't looking so good for Rotorua, Whakatane or Taupo. However, MetService spokesman Daniel Corbett says things could change between now and then.
Heavy rain has hit the region today but should clear by tomorrowafternoon and remain fine for the start of the week.
"The broad outlook is for the active low and its associated rain or showers to clear away from the North Island over the weekend. There still could be some showers in places, some heavy and prolonged."
Mr Corbett said a high-pressure system would begin to cover the South Island on the weekend and it should extend across all of New Zealand by Monday bringing fine weather with it.
Rotorua should hit a maximum of 18C today and a maximum of 17C and by Monday the fine weather should return.
Whakatane will get heavy rain today with a maximum of 20C and tomorrow should clear with a maximum of 20C. Taupo also has rain today, possibly clearing by mid-afternoon, with a maximum of 16C, clearing tomorrow with similar temperatures.
Christmas day forecast
Rotorua: Max 20C - Min 12C. Showers. Not much wind
