Bay of Plenty residents can look forward to a warm and largely settled weekend.

Temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-20s before rain arrives late Sunday and lingers into the start of next week.

MetService’s latest weather forecast is for generally fine conditions across much of the country through Thursday and Friday, with only isolated showers affecting some eastern areas.

The Bay of Plenty is expected to enjoy pleasant spring weather through the weekend, although cloud and a few showers could develop on Saturday as a low-pressure system approaches from the Tasman Sea.

MetService meteorologist Surprise Mhlongo said rain was likely to persist into Monday across northern regions.

“It will be a wet return to school after the holidays for the upper half of the North Island, as rain is expected to linger in the north on Monday,” Mhlongo said.

Despite the change, temperatures are forecast to remain mild and above average for October, with many Bay of Plenty centres expected to reach the low to mid-20s over the weekend.

People planning outdoor activities are encouraged to make the most of the fine weather through Saturday and keep an eye on forecasts ahead of Sunday’s change.