Heavy rain is expected to lash several parts of the country this afternoon, according to MetService.
MetService said a low over the Tasman Sea should cross the South Island overnight and early tomorrow morning, bringing heavy rain to several areas.
An orange heavy rain warning was in place for Tasman District ranges west of Motueka until 1am and Westland District until 4am tomorrow.
Up to 160mm of rain was expected for the Westland District ranges, with the heaviest falls likely around this afternoon and evening "when intensities could reach 20 to 25mm per hour".
An orange heavy rain warning has also been issued for the Bryant and Richmond Ranges, including the Rai Valley, until 3am.
Up to 120mm of rain was expected in the region, with peaks of 15 to 20mm/h expected this afternoon and evening.
MetService said "warmer than average muggy temperatures" could be expected for most areas today.
In the North Island, Mount Taranaki/Taranaki Mounga was under an orange rain warning from 4pm today to 2pm tomorrow.
The area can expect to see 120 to 200mm of rain, with peak rates of 20 to 30mm/h expected on Friday morning.
Heavy rain watches were also in effect for Tararua Range, Paparoa Range within the Buller District and the headwaters of the Canterbury Lakes and Rivers south of Arthur's Pass into Friday.
Northland, Northern Taranaki, Waitomo, Taumarunui and northern Taihape, including the Tongariro National Park, the ranges of Eastern Bay of Plenty were also under heavy rain watches.
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