The official start of longer days and shorter nights coincides with a period of fine weather for Hawke's Bay, after a southerly flow battered the region this week.
Blustery winds of up to 100km an hour wreaked havoc on Monday, toppling trees and blocking roads throughout the region.
The polar blast was due to a southerly cold snap moving up the country, which dusted the ranges with snow.
But balmy weather is expected today, with clear skies, easing westerly winds and a daytime high of 22C.
The fine conditions will continue tomorrow, with warm northwest breezes.