Astonishing photos and videos have emerged showing the impact of the torrential rain that struck the South Island on Saturday and caused severe flooding in some regions.
Heavy rain hit southern areas overnight, causing flooding near Timaru, bridge washouts on the West Coast, and slips throughout the various inner-island passes.
Rangitata
The main area of concern is Rangitata in the Timaru district. The main river has risen dramatically throughout the day, causing flooding in surrounding fields and the houses on them. Several streets near the river have been evacuated, while campers further up the river have been told to leave.
State Highway 1 and the bridge that crosses the river have been closed, but no diversions are in place.
West Coast
Arthur's Pass State Highway 73 between the West Coast and Canterbury is down to a single lane at Candy's Bend below the viaduct due to a major slip.
Slips in south Westland has also caused State Highway 6 to be closed from Hokitika south through the Haast Pass to Makarora. Little Man's Bridge has been washed out on State Highway 6 near Whataroa. That route will likely take about two days to deal with, NZTA says.
The Coasters Club Facebook page has been keeping residents up to date.
Otago
There are concerns about rising water levels at lakes Wakatipu and Wanaka as well as the Clutha River. These are being monitored carefully out of concern for flooding.
