MetService has issued a red warning for parts of the west coast of the South Island as a deluge of rain is set to hit this week.
The heaviest rain is expected in Westland and Buller, both of which are now covered by a red warning. A spokesperson for the
forecaster said this signals the likelihood of significant impacts.
"An active front, preceded by a strong and very moist north to northwesterly flow, is forecast to move slowly northwards over the South Island from Wednesday to Friday, bringing significant heavy rain to western areas," they said.
In Westland, MetService is predicting between 550 and 750mm of rain will accumulate near the ranges and 150 to 250mm near the coast.
