It's a sticky run for some up to Christmas next week

Alexandra will be sweltering in 32 degrees - the highest temperature in the land - while Christchurch will have an expected high of 30.

There's little more than 73 kilometres between Wellington and Blenheim, yet 10 degrees separate the two.

The capital's expecting a relatively nippy 19 degrees while the town at the top of the South Island will be sweating in 29 degree heat.

Hamilton's bracing for 27 degrees and Dunedin with 26.