Business is booming for northern Thailand's kite sellers as locals buy the flying toys amid pouncing chilly winds during the cold season.

Vendors stationed themselves next to busy roads connecting the provinces of Khon Kaen and Kalasin, peddling the colourful creations for the coming New Year.

The vividly coloured kites - some of which were shaped like eagles - caught the eyes of passers-by, who purchased them as souvenirs and tools to drive away birds pestering farmers' rice fields.

Kite seller Sathit Bubpha, 60, said: 'Each kite I sell is made by hand. The fabrics are cut into various colourful patterns then assembled onto a bamboo frame.'

One kite sells for between 70 to 200 THB (2 to 5.76 USD) each, with the smaller ones especially popular as gifts for children.

Sathit said he earns as much as 1,000 THB (28.81 USD) a day selling his products this holiday season.

Thailand's Meteorological Department said the country's northern regions may experience temperatures as low as 14 degrees Celsius this week as a cold front rolls in from China.

Locals were advised to wear warmer clothing to protect their health.