Aucklanders enjoying their Christmas lunch will also be in for a mainly fine day with the chance of an afternoon shower forecast to hit north of the city. Christchurch is set for mainly fine weather with noticeable clouds and strengthening winds in the afternoon, which may impact any outdoor barbecue plans. Watches and warningsThe ranges of the Buller District are under an orange heavy rain warning from 6am today until 6am Boxing Day. The ranges of the Westland and Grey districts from Arthurs Pass northwards and the Canterbury Headwaters from Arthurs Pass northwards are under the same warning until 9pm tonight. A heavy rain watch is also in place for Canterbury Headwaters from Mt Cook to Arthurs Pass until 5pm.

Source: New Zealand Herald December 24, 2025 16:39 UTC