A slip has closed part of State Highway 6 between Greymouth and Westport this afternoon, as the effects of heavy rain is felt across the region.
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said SH6/ Coast Rd between Greymouth and Westport on the West Coast was shut this afternoon due to a slip at Meybille Bay.
"People are asked to avoid the closed area of SH6/Coast Rd between Punakaiki and Fox River, or to consider delaying their journeys," a spokesperson said.
The closure followed heavy rain and widespread surface flooding, fallen trees and other slips occurring across the West Coast and the central South Island today.
Grey District Council shared an image of flooding over the road in the Arnold Valley.
"Motorists should take care," it said.
NZTA said it had received reports of flooding on SH6 in the Lower Buller Gorge, on various parts of State Highway 7 between Greymouth and Reefton, and on State Highways 7 and 65 between the Hanmer Springs turnoff and Murchison.
"Treefalls have been reported on SH6 at Berlins and Inangahua Junction, and on State Highway 67 near Westport. Further south, snowfall is affecting areas such as Lindis Pass in Otago. People are urged to travel with extra care in these affected areas," NZTA said.
An orange heavy rain warning remained in place for the Grey and Buller Districts, and Nelson Lakes, until 1am Monday.
"This level of warning means that streams and rivers may rise rapidly, and surface flooding, slips and difficult driving conditions are possible,' MetService said.
Heavy rain watches were also in effect for the Canterbury high country north of Aoraki-Mount Cook, and southwestern Marlborough, as well as the Ranges of Westland north of Mount Cook National Park.
Limited snowfalls would be possible on Porters Pass and Arthur's Pass on State Highway 73, and at Lewis Pass on SH7, through until Monday morning.
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