It's expected to be a hotter and drier season, as El Niño eases to neutral

NIWA reports above average heat, and extended dry spells, for most of the country -- apart from irregular rainfall events.

It says there will be heavy rainfall for the first week of March, and potentially in the second half.

But Principal Scientist Chris Brandolino, says dry spells could still be problematic for Auckland, Northland and Bay of Plenty, and the top of the south island.

He says we could enjoy more days at the beach until early April, and more days with fans or air conditioning going.