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Spring 2023 was a mixed bag for the region, alternating between strong westerly flow typical of El Niños and north-easterly rain events typical of La Niñas. Total rainfall accumulations were generally drier in the west and wetter in the east, which is opposite to what one would expect during an El Niño. Paraparaumu had the second driest spring on record, with about only half of the average rainfall. Even then, less rainfall was welcome for many after the La Niña floods, giving the opportunity for the soil moisture levels to stabilise with fewer slips around the capital. Late-season cold snaps continued to affect the region (mostly short lived), with the mean seasonal temperatures sitting near average.