Weather: Christmas Day warning for half of New Zealand

Christmas Day is fast approaching - but so is bad weather.

Appearing on RadioLIVE on Monday, weatherman Richard Green says for half the country it might be a wet and indoors event.

"I'd say 50 percent of the country ok, 50 percent a little bit damp," he says.

"I'd rather be in the South Island than the North Island Christmas Day at the moment. It's a big call, but especially in northern and western parts of the North Island look a little bit damp Christmas morning."

The lead-up to Christmas isn't looking that great either. Mr Green says Monday will be the best day of the week.

"For the country as a whole, I'm going for today. Very warm," he says.

"But it's the second half of the week - as I say, not that flash."

But there is good news. NIWA says the New Year period will see higher pressure than normal for much of New Zealand.

"Warmer than average temperatures. Still a front or two possible for the lower South Island," it says.

Newshub.