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."