KEY POINTS:
Sunblock will be a must this weekend, with scorching temperatures expected in most parts of the country.
Temperatures could reach a fiery 40C in some areas, including Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Marlborough, Wairarapa and Otago, weather analyst Richard Green says.
"There's potential for this heat to be in the mid to upper 30s ... and 40 is not impossible."
Clear skies and sunny weather will be welcomed in most parts of the country, with people living in only a few areas being forced to pack the umbrella.
MetService forecaster Gerard Barrow said most areas would be getting "perfect barbecue weather" this weekend; with areas in the North Island reaching highs of between 26C and 30C.
Those in the South Island - except for those living in the west - could expect fine weather also.
Auckland temperatures are expected to reach up to 26C today, with light sea breezes and temperatures reaching the mid-20C mark tomorrow.
Parts of the South Island - including Fiordland and Hokitika - will get the odd rain today, while eastern areas, including Gisborne, Mahia and southwards, are expected to be the hottest parts of the country with highs of up to 30C.
Mr Barrow said not everyone would welcome the sunny weather.
"Gisborne and southwards - they will be getting quite hot. It's quite dry at this time already and a lot of people will be happy," Mr Barrow said.
"But farmers might not appreciate it much because it might dry things out even more."
Rugby sevens fans in Wellington might only need to take a light cardigan along to the games, with the temperature expected to reach 20C, coupled with light winds.
Temperatures in Hamilton are expected to reach up to 30C today, tomorrow and possibly Monday, while musos attending the Raggamuffin festival in Rotorua today can expect temperatures of up to 27C.
Mr Barrow said temperatures in Christchurch could reach up to 29C on Sunday, with many parts of Canterbury getting "very, very warm" during the weekend and on Monday.
"Overall, the next few days - Saturday and Sunday and probably Monday - will be settled weather."
