While many Kiwis enjoying their holidays outdoors this season will no doubt be hoping for sunshine and warm weather, those in parts of the country facing punishing dry conditions will be wishing for a dousing of much-needed rain.
According to WeatherWatch, although 2020 is ending on a calm note weatherwise, "2021 looks to kick off with wet weather across the country".
However, forecasters warned "it's good news and bad", as not all places in need of rain are looking like they'll get it.
"Areas like central Otago and south Canterbury – which are historically dry regions having a very dry 2020 – will get some downpours as low pressure develops in the next few days," WeatherWatch said on Wednesday.
"Some heavy falls are possible here inland where it's needed the most. Those camping near streams and small rivers in Southland, Otago and south Canterbury should be aware of this forecast."
But Auckland, where a drought earlier this year has left water reserves at levels much lower than normal, appears to be stuck in a "dry bubble", WeatherWatch said.
"Extra high pressure – more than usual – has been dominating our largest city for two years now and so far December's rainfall figures have been below normal despite a few wet days.
"Only a few showers are currently forecast for the water storage areas."
The city's current dam storage sits at around 70 percent, while it is normally hovering around 90 percent at this time of year.
According to MetService, showers will linger in eastern areas of the North Island as New Year's Eve approaches, with "increased shower activity" possible over the South Island on Thursday.
"Increased moisture at the surface and daytime heating will mean convective showers are expected over inland South Island during Thursday," said MetService meteorologist Kyle Lee.
Lee said a lack of wind "should spell good news" for people planning on ringing in the new year by watching fireworks displays, however rain was forecast for the lower South Island as well as isolated showers along the West Coast.
"The upper South Island, including Nelson as well as the coastal Canterbury region should remain dry but there could be high cloud over Christchurch city. Much of the North Island is expected to have settled weather, with a few showers expected in the east, with major cities Wellington and Auckland remaining fine," MetService forecast.
