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El Nino is set to play havoc with summer holiday plans because climate experts say perfect holiday weather cannot be guaranteed anywhere in the country.
The El Nino conditions will affect the weather until the end of summer, which will be windier than normal.
Those hoping to dip their toes in the sea be warned - sea surface temperatures are expected to be below normal.
Holidaymakers have a better chance of warm, dry weather in the north and east of the North Island, while those in the west and south of the South Island can expect cold and wet weather.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research released its seasonal climate outlook yesterday, which predicts conditions for the next three months.
Climate expert Jim Salinger said temperatures would be average or below average in many regions.
Rainfall was expected to be normal or below normal in the north and east of the North Island and Marlborough, but above normal in the west and south of the South Island. More westerly and southwesterly winds would continue through the summer.
Dr Salinger said El Nino would increase the chances of a tropical cyclone affecting some South Pacific countries.
Colder down south
Regional predictions for the next three months:
* Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty: average temperatures likely, normal or below normal rainfall and soil moisture expected.
* Central North Island, Taranaki, Wanganui, Manawatu and Wellington: average or below average temperatures likely, normal rainfall and soil moisture likely.
* Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Wairarapa: average temperatures likely, below normal rainfall and soil moisture expected.
* Nelson, Marlborough, Buller: average temperatures likely, normal or below normal rainfall likely, with Marlborough more likely to be below normal. Soil moisture normal.
* West Coast, Alps and foothills, inland Otago, Southland: below average temperatures very likely, above normal rainfall, soil moisture likely.
* Coastal Canterbury, East Otago: average or below average temperatures likely, normal rainfall, soil moisture likely.
- NZPA
