New Zealand is supposed to be in the grips of winter - but it appears spring has come early.
Weather Watch head forecaster Philip Duncan says Kiwis are already feeling the heat. Temperatures have already shot above 20degC in some parts of the country - and this is expected to continue.
"This is usually considered the true depths of winter, but across New Zealand we're hearing it feels more like an early spring especially on a week with warmer than average weather," Weather Watch says.
"Across New Zealand we're getting reports of blossoms out, pasture suddenly growing and temperatures well above normal, not to mention lambs and calves being born, or even monarch butterflies hatching," Mr Duncan says.
"Not only does it FEEL like spring but there are physical signs of spring in nature."
The Hawke's Bay region hit 22degc on Thursday, with temperatures in the late teens in many other areas. This is predicted to continue - and could be the start of a great beach season.
But it's not all going to be sunshine and roses. Weather Watch warns the transition between seasons can still bring bad weather.
"Spring can have brutal snow storms and fierce frosts, possible right through until October," Mr Duncan says.
"In mid-August 2011 we had a snow storm that brought snow to downtown Auckland and the hills of Northland, so you can never say never."
Newshub.
