Christchurch to swelter in 33 degree heat, but much-needed rain coming to deep south

Much needed rain is expected to fall on the South Island today, but meteorologists are warning it won't be enough to break the drought.

It's thought there will need to be several rain storms before ground moisture levels return to normal.

It's been weeks since there was any significant rainfall in Gore, which has led to region-wide water restrictions.

Rain will fall in Invercargill this morning, with the wider Southland and Otago regions getting the wet weather later in the day.

It will be a scorcher on the east coast, however, with Christchurch to hit 33 degrees, and Blenheim 30.

It will reach 30 in Masterton, but other than the odd shower, it's fine and sunny in most of the North Island. 

Check the forecast in your region on the 1 NEWS NOW weather page