The rain holds its grip on Kaikoura and the town has been isolated with state highway one being closed due to debris from storm surge over the coastal highway.The rain and the wind is expected to slowly ease throughout the day but rainfall totals have exceeded 150mm in some areas.

The rain has taken its toll south of Christchurch as flooding has closed the highway between Rakaia and Ashburton on state highway one.

Swollen rivers in Christchurch have topped their banks this morning.The Avon River has breached its banks as the rain that had initially eased has now returned.The Heathcote is also struggling to cope with the flows with reports of one or two breaches as well.

High tide is due in Christchurch mid-afternoon with all eyes closely watching the two rivers. Although it has overflowed in lowlying areas that are traditionally vulnerable, further rain could cause some serious problems for Christchurch.

New rain warnings from the MetService have been issued for Canterbury with the potential for double the rainfall totals that have already fallen in some areas.It appears there are two separate rainbands slowly heading south and accompanied by localised downpours.

The weatherwatch team are closely monitoring the situation.