Most of Auckland and Northland is being warned about heavy rain ahead of the long weekend.
There are orange heavy rain warnings in place for eastern Northland (south of Kawakawa), Great Barrier Island and eastern Auckland (north of Whangaparāoa).
There are heavy rain watches for Northland south of Kaitaia (not included in the warning), Auckland north of Papakura (not covered by the warning) and Coromandel Peninsula north of Whitianga.
The Hibiscus Coast Highway near Waiwera has been closed by a large slip.
It was reported just after 6.30am, on a section of road near Weranui Road.
No injuries have been reported, however at this stage it appears about six properties have been impacted.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area or take alternative routes and allow additional time to travel.
Fire and Emergency NZ also responded to a large pine tree blocking the road between Waiwera and Hatfields Beach, north of Orewa, early this morning. It is not yet confirmed the incident was weather-related.
MetService said: "A low and associated trough are expected to bring heavy rain, with the potential for localised downpours, to northern parts of the North Island until Friday night."
Up to 150mm of rain could fall in eastern Northland - including up to 25mm an hour.
There is a low chance of the warning being upgraded to red. The warning is in place until midnight.
Up to 120mm could fall in north-east Auckland and Great Barrier Island - with the warnings in place until mid-afternoon.
"Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.
"Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously."
Anzac weekend forecast
MetService yesterday said the weather would improve in most parts of the country for Anzac Day.
However, some early morning showers were possible around the eastern coast of Northland, which could affect some dawn services.
"Dawn services are looking mostly dry, but it will be a cold start, especially inland," Law said. "Waiouru is set to be one of the coldest spots, with temperatures around 1C at daybreak."
While nights would remain chilly, plenty of sunshine was expected to help lift daytime temperatures, Law said, particularly across the eastern South Island. After a run of cooler days, Canterbury and Otago were expected to be the warmest parts of the country this weekend, with Dunedin forecast to reach around 22C on Saturday – about five degrees above average for this time of year.
High pressure would stay in charge through to Monday for most regions, giving Kiwis the chance to soak up the sunshine as they enjoy their final day of the long weekend.
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