Raw: Watch as raging torrents of water rush over sodden Golden Bay paddocks during Cyclone Gita

Swathe of weather watches and warnings issued for the South Island

MetService meteorologist John Law said there would be more strong winds and heavy rain in store for the weekend.

Increasing numbers of pet turtles being found in South Island waterways

Turtle rescuer Donna Moot is at capacity and fears more to come.

Wind warning for Auckland Harbour Bridge, gales for Wairarapa

Gusts across the bridge could potentially reach between 75 and 85km/h between 9am and 2pm.

Watches upgraded to warnings as heavy rain, severe gales loom

Heavy rain and strong wind watches have been upgraded to warnings in multiple regions, including the Wairarapa, Tararua, and Buller areas.