Climate change scientists have projected continued global greenhouse gas emissions would heat Northland heat up more than other regions

Northland farmers are facing drier than normal conditions.

Heavy rain and wind is forecast to batter the upper South Island and lower North Island this afternoon.

Summer likely to be wetter than average according to long-term Niwa forecast.

Hotter than average temperatures can be expected across the entire country over the next three months - but the warm won't come without rain.

A weather balloon with cameras attached has captured a stunning view of Central Otago from the sky.

A wetter summer season is on the cards for the upper North Island - but that doesn't mean people should go cancelling their Coromandel holiday plans.

Growing global market opportunities and the need to strengthen supply chains are creating a thirst for capital among agricultural co-operatives around the world, rural lending specialist Rabobank said.

Sun-lovers should head to the Bay of Plenty or Hawkes Bay for the best weather this summer, but most of the country can expect warmer, drier weather.

As valuable to marine life as it is prized by humans, the Hauraki Gulf is in decline. Though solutions seem as elusive as the gulf's fish stocks, a groundswell is building for collaboration.

The Government is keeping close watch on the "big dry" in many regions and will consider drought assistance if conditions worsen, Agriculture Minister David Carter says.