Firefighters warn of increased risk as Christchurch temperatures reach 27°C

Christchurch is expected to experience its warmest spring day so far on Tuesday, with temperatures forecast to reach 27°C. This temperature is approximately 10°C above the average maximum for mid-October. Gusty northwesterlies are expected to develop across the city.

The hot spell is expected to be short-lived as a front brings rain from Wednesday. Temperatures are forecast to drop to 11°C on Friday, with possible frosty mornings over the weekend.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has urged people to take extra care due to increased fire risk. Des Irving, assistant district commander for FENZ Canterbury, advised against starting fires in windy and hot conditions. He suggested using the Check It's Alright tool before lighting any outdoor fire.

FENZ is also investigating the cause of the Walter Peak fire near Queenstown. The blaze, which started on 6 October on the southern shores of Lake Wakatipu, scorched about 1350 hectares of land. Investigators are looking into a potential connection to a controlled burn at Walter Peak High Country Farm on 30 September.

Where reports differ

• Report 2 notes that by 9:30am, Banks Peninsula was the hottest place in the country at just over 21°C.

Compiled from reports by RNZ, The Press and Otago Daily Times.