NZ basking in summer sun

Sunbathers absorb the rays yesterday on Takapuna Beach during a summer day on which the temperature hit 26C. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Most of New Zealand bathed in scorching temperatures yesterday and the summer weather is forecast to continue today.

The top temperature of 34C was recorded in Christchurch. Auckland reached a high of 26.

MetService duty forecaster Paul Mallinson said yesterday's temperatures were likely to be repeated today.

"It's going to be a pretty settled day," he said. "A bit of a weak rain band is coming down to the upper part of the North Island later in the day.

But the rest of the country will have lighter winds."

The MetService has warned that solar UV rays will be extreme and advises staying in the shade between 11am and 4pm.

Two cyclones on their way could dampen the joys of summer on Tuesday - but not for too long.

Mr Mallinson said the cyclones were both "falling apart" and would not cause as much damage as thestorm that hit New Zealand after Christmas.

"We can expect strong winds through the centre of the country on Tuesday and Wednesday, and heavy rains mainly in the central parts."

He said the weather systems would last only about 12 to 15 hours.

Meanwhile, a survey has found that while the message about the dangers of skin cancer is slowly getting through, New Zealanders are still ignoring the risks in using sun beds.

A survey of 1000 Southern Cross Health Society members revealed that 33 per cent of those aged 21-29 had used a sunbed, 27 per cent would consider using one again and 3 per cent were regular users.

- additional reporting NZPA