If you’re looking for the best place to spend the long weekend, MetService meteorologist Ashlee Parkes has a clear answer: Head east.
While a large weather system moving in from the Tasman Sea is set to drench western parts of New Zealand, eastern regions are expected to stay relatively sheltered, warm and largely dry.
“It is looking like the place to be once again is through the likes of Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay,” Parkes said.
The contrast between east and west is expected to be stark as a major front approaches from the northwest, ending the settled weather much of the country has enjoyed over recent days.
“That is unfortunately going to come to an end with that feature approaching from the west.”
