Parts of the South Island's east coast is set for a scorching day, with temperatures nearly reaching 30°C. MetService says northwesterly winds and sunny conditions are driving the hot temperatures. Blenheim was forecast to reach 29°C, while Christchurch was set to reach 28°C, Ashburton 27°C and Timaru 25°C. Further south, Dunedin was set to reach a high of just 19°C. A cold front will see temperatures along the east coast dip on Monday.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 07, 2026 22:59 UTC