Wet weather had put a dampener on Christmas this year, however it looks to improve from here.
Thunder, lightning and sunshine - the works over Nelson. Photo: Tracy Neal/RNZ
Wellington received more than its fair share of rain yesterday, with Lyall Bay on Wellington's waterfront becoming flooded during the morning.
But it also provided a much-needed respite for North Island farmers with drying pastures and cracking soils.
Federated Farmers Wairarapa provinicial president, Jamie Falloon said he's had about 10 millimetres of rain in his area.
"Everyone was pretty cheerful, sitting there watching the cricket, having a beer, listening to the rain on the roof, you couldn't ask for a better Boxing Day from a farmer's perspective," he said.
Mr Falloon said they'll still need substantial rainfall to make a big difference, but yesterday's rain was a good start, giving crops a much needed top-up.
MetService meteorologist Sarah Haddon said today there will be cold southerlies for most of the country, with significantly stronger winds on the East Coast of the North Island and around the Wellington area.
She said the weather will slowly improve during the week.
However, households on the East Coast should still expect a number of showers.
Main centre forecasts today
Whangarei
A few showers which will clear in the afternoon as fine spells increase. Will reach a high of 23C.
Auckland
A few showers but then it will be fine with a bit of breeze which should ease this evening. Will reach a high of 23C.
Hamilton
Mostly sunny with a chance of afternoon showers and a high of 23C.
Tauranga
Long fine spells with possibly a shower or two and a high of 23C.
Wellington
Cloudy with a few showers and strong winds. Will reach a high of 15C.
Christchurch
Mostly cloudy with a few showers which will clear this afternoon. Will reach a high of 17C.
Dunedin
Possibly a few showers and cloud but mainly fine with a high of 15C.