MetService is forecasting settled and mostly dry weather for much of New Zealand this week, with little to no rain for most.

Cool temperatures are to continue in the east early in the week.

However, warmer, humid air with rain may move over the country as we near the end of the week.

“Cool temperatures are expected to stick around this week, expected especially in the eastern areas thanks to the southerly flow driven by a high-pressure system that’s currently dominating New Zealand,” said MetService meteorologist Surprise Mhlongo.

How abnormal were the first 10 days of 2025 in the North Island? Photo / MetService

How abnormal were the first 10 days of 2025 in the South Island? Photo / MetService

“However, western areas and the lower South Island continue to be the best places to be this summer, with Wānaka temperatures forecast [at an] average of 28C this week, while the West Coast basks in sunshine.”

Although it will be cooler, mainly fine weather is forecast for much of the country.

“Even though there could be days of a few showers in some places during the morning and afternoon, it will be a mainly fine week for the southern North Island, with dry but cold evenings.”

Towards the end of the week, a complex low-pressure system from the north is set to bring rain and warmer temperatures.

“A band of rain and strong warm northeasterly winds may move on to Northland on Friday, gradually spreading to Auckland during the day.

“At this point, there is still some uncertainty [regarding] the amount of rain we might see there, so we advise everyone to keep up with our local forecasts for your weekend plans”, said Mhlongo.