Canterbury residents with leftover Guy Fawkes fireworks are being urged to take care as breezy conditions combine with dry ground and elevated fire risk in parts of the region.

MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris said Friday night’s weather was less than ideal for letting off fireworks, after another hot day saw Christchurch Airport reach around 28C.

“With it having been Guy Fawkes, people might still have some leftover fireworks, but it is pretty breezy around Canterbury tonight, so maybe not the perfect night to go letting off those fireworks,” he said.

Ferris said parts of Canterbury had been very dry, with fire risk already high in some areas.

Firefighters responded to at least six fireworks-related fires across Christchurch and Selwyn on Thursday night.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand southern shift manager Blair Walklin told chrislynchmedia.com the evening had been quieter than previous years, but crews could face more callouts as celebrations continued.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we see an increase over the weekend.”

Walklin warned anyone planning to let off fireworks to keep an eye on the wind.

Ferris said some relief from the heat is on the way, although Saturday is expected to remain warm before afternoon showers potentially develop.

He said showers could be heavier inland, with the possibility of a few lightning strikes.

Sunday is looking cloudier, with further wet weather possible and a southerly change bringing cooler air into the region.

“Winds are actually turning around to the south for the first time in what might feel like quite a wee while, so that is going to bring in cooler air,” he said.

Lighter winds and some rain are expected over the weekend, but the cooler conditions may not last.

Ferris said Canterbury could see more rain early next week, while a broader return to northerly winds was expected to bring warmth back across the country.