Spring looks likely to be warm and dry

Summer seems set to arrive early, with above average temperatures expected for most of New Zealand during the next two months.

A Niwa climate outlook till the end of October predicts a dry, warm spring for most of the North Island.

Wellington, Manawatu and Wanganui can look forward to warmer-than-normal temperatures and below-average rainfall during the period.

Wairarapa, Hawke's Bay and Gisborne are unlikely to experience any big difference from last year, with normal temperatures and rainfall expected.

South Islanders are also likely to get a taste of the balmy weather, with above-average temperatures likely for the West Coast, Southland and Otago.

Niwa climate scientist Jim Salinger said westerly winds, which normally worked to keep spring temperatures down, would be weaker than normal.

- © Fairfax NZ News