As if signalling the close of summer, a burst of chilly southerlies swept across Aotearoa today, bringing single-digit temperatures to much of the country – and the Bay of Plenty region wasn’t spared.

While the coldest conditions were felt further south, Bay of Plenty residents woke to crisp morning air and a noticeable drop in temperatures, with cool winds lingering throughout the day.

MetService said the chill will continue into mid‑week, but relief is on the horizon.

MetService meteorologist Dan Corrigan said New Zealanders should expect several more nights best spent tucked up warm.

“These next couple of days are for everyone who loves the feeling of being wrapped up in a cozy bed. If you had to grab an extra blanket last night, it’s probably going to be needed for the next three nights as well.”

Weather for Bay of Plenty

The region will experience showery conditions and brisk southerlies through Tuesday, though rainfall is expected to ease as skies gradually clear. While eastern parts of the North Island hold on to patchy showers until Wednesday, Bay of Plenty should begin to see more settled weather from late Tuesday.

Though not in the direct path of the coldest air, Bay of Plenty can still expect cool evenings and below‑average daytime highs until temperatures start their climb from Thursday, MetService said.

Lunar eclipse outlook

Sky‑watchers in Bay of Plenty will be keen to know that Tuesday night brings a total lunar eclipse, or a “blood moon”. The moon begins to redden at around 11pm, with totality starting at around midnight and peaking roughly 30 minutes later.

According to Corrigan, conditions look best for the upper North Island, meaning Bay of Plenty stands a good chance of catching a clear view.

Return to warmth by late week

By midweek, temperatures begin edging back toward normal for early March. The South Island starts the warm‑up on Wednesday, with the North Island – including Bay of Plenty – expected to follow on Thursday.

Afternoon highs should lift from the mid-teens into the mid‑twenties by week’s end, bringing a welcome return to more summery conditions.

“Once this cold snap subsides, it’ll feel like we’re back in summer,” Corrigan said.