Rain warnings as front moves across North Island

Several warnings for rain have been issued as a front slowly makes its way across parts of the northern North Island this morning.

Another front was also expected to move northwards over the lower South Island.

An orange heavy rain warning was issued for the eastern ranges of Bay of Plenty and the ranges of Gisborne/Tairāwhiti for 25 hours between 9am today and 10am tomorrow.

Those under the warning could expect 110 to 150mm of rain with peak rates of 15 to 25mm/h.

MetService warned streams and rivers could rise rapidly, with surface flooding and slips making it difficult to drive.

"Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously."

Heavy rain watches were also issued for Northland, Great Barrier Island, Coromandel Peninsula, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty (excluding the eastern ranges), and the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers

Heavy Rain Warning – Orange

The eastern ranges of Bay of Plenty and the ranges of Gisborne/Tairāwhiti – 25 hours from 9am Wednesday to 10am Thursday

Heavy Rain Watch

Northland – 3 hours from 9am to noon Wednesday,

Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula – 10 hours from 9am to 7pm Wednesday

Auckland – 4 hours from 9am to 1pm Wednesday

Waikato – 6 hours from 9am to 3pm Wednesday

Bay of Plenty excluding the eastern ranges – 17 hours from 9am Wednesday to 2am Thursday

Headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers – 12 hours from 5pm Wednesday to 5am Thursday