Drivers travelling in the lower North Island and on the South Island’s east coast are being asked to take care on the roads as heavy rain affects the regions.
The Metservice has issued a heavy rain watch for eastern Marlborough, south of Ward. Another alert is in place for Wairarapa, including the Tararua District and the eastern hills of Wellington. The warnings run until 9 pm tonight.
The wet weather is already affecting State Highway 1 between Ward in Marlborough and Waipara in North Canterbury, with reports of localised flooding along the route.
Drivers must drive to the conditions and be prepared for hazards. Please watch your speed and following distances and turn your headlights on if visibility is poor.
Heavy rain increases the risk of slips and flooding, and roads may be closed at short notice. Please check road and weather conditions before you travel.
