A predicted heatwave has public health officials warning people in Otago and Southland to look after themselves, and others.
Temperatures in many places are expected to top 30decC for the next several days.
Waiau, in Northern Canterbury, hit a blistering 37degC yesterday, the hottest temperature recorded for New Zealand in seven years.
The record temperature for New Zealand was measured in Rangiora in February 1973, when it reached 42.4degC.
On Monday, the temperature is forecast to hit 35degC in Alexandra and Cromwell and 34degC in Wanaka.