Flooding has closed roads in the Haast area, with police urging people in southern Westland to avoid travelling this evening.
“There are a number of roads in the area with surface flooding, which are being closed by contractors,” police said.
“High tide is due overnight so people are asked to be extra cautious.”
It comes as the Westland District remains under an orange heavy rain warning.
The warning has been in place since 9pm and lasts until 3pm tomorrow.
“On top of what has fallen, expect 250 to 350mm of rain about the ranges (possibly more in localised areas), and 100 to 130mm nearer the coast (especially around the Glaciers). Peak rates of 25 to 35mm/h expected about the ranges. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Red Warning,” MetService warned.
Westland Mayor Helen Lash told RNZ the district was prepared should the heavy rain cause flooding.
MetService has also issued an orange heavy rain warning for the Grey and Buller districts into tomorrow evening.
The Canterbury Headwaters south of Arthur’s Pass are under the warning until tomorrow afternoon, while Otago Headwaters and Fiordland about and north of George Sound are under the warning until tomorrow morning.
A strong wind watch is in place for Canterbury High Country until tomorrow afternoon.
People can stay up to date with the latest weather watches and warnings on MetService’s website.
