Rain was expected in Rotorua today and would continue into next week. Photo / NZME.
The school holidays are expected to get off to a rainy start.
Springfield-based weather man Brian Holden said June was an uneventful month for Rotorua's weather.
"We had six frosts last month, that is about average for June and I think the rainfall was about average.
"It's slightly below average, but it's still what you would expect for June and it's just a little bit warmer. But when you say that you mean it's a little bit less cold.
"All I can say is winter is here."
MetService meteorologist Peter Little said rain was expected in Rotorua today, and would continue into next week.
"We've got a trough that starts to move up the country so expect drizzle in the day which will turn to rain in the evening.
"Northerly winds will pick up. Saturday will bring more rain, so there will be rain to start the school holidays. There is a chance the rain will be heavy.
"On Sunday we can expect sunny spells by the end of the day as southwesterly winds push through. In the new week on Monday there will be cloudy periods and westerly winds, and Saturday is not looking good but days around it aren't too bad."
He said the beginning of next week looked unsettled.
"What I would say to people if they want to head out with the kids it will be a good idea to check the forecast, there may well be showers at times."
Police have said he was evading arrest, but a family member disputed that.