A woman with multiple sclerosis has died from overheating, prompting a warning from the Chief Coroner.
New Zealand is on track towards its hottest January on record. Photo: 123RF
People living with multiple sclerosis can struggle to control their body's temperature in hot weather.
Chief Coroner Judge Deborah Marshall said people with multiple sclerosis, or other illnesses which make them susceptible to overheating, need to keep an eye on symptoms worsening in the hot weather.
The woman, in her early 60s, died from hyperthermia in Christchurch on Wednesday.
MetService said Christchurch had a high of 32°C on Wednesday and is forecast to reach the same high next week.
Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand said people can keep their body cool by being in air conditioned rooms, wearing cooling cotton clothes, and drinking more water.