It’s been quite noticeable here in the south that trees are starting to change colour which seems fairly early this year.

Just 3 weeks ago everything was still in its summer phase but lately cooler nights with some dew seems to be aiding the turning process.

Yesterday smokey burn offs filled the air with a nor’ wester here in Canterbury fanning one or two minor fires but the smell in the air and the warmth of the day is one of my favourite times of year.

It often seems a peacful time of year with the harsh rays of the sun pretty much gone and the biting cold of winter yet to arrive.

Leaves started to fall as a breeze blew through from time to time and they seemed to be dancing in the air as they wafted to the ground.

Then the crunch of the leaves underfoot just added to the magic of the walk in the afternoon and the warmth of the wind rounded off the experience.

It seems later today conditions will be quite different with the chance of a shower or storm but that all adds to the vast array of weather experienced in red and black territory at any stage of the year.

Story by WeatherWatch.co.nz weather analyst Richard Green

Photo of turning tree by R.Green