More severe weather warnings have been issued for both islands today.

Severe gales are possible for the lower North Island warns MetService, while heavy rain will affect the South Island’s West Coast and about the main divide.

North Island:

Wellington, Wairarapa: Wellington north of Upper Hutt, also the east of the North Island from Cape Turnagain southwards Between 9am and 6pm today, expect northwesterlies 65 km/h at times, with gusts 120 km/h.

South Island:

Canterbury: Headwaters of Canterbury lakes and rivers In the 3 hours from 9am to noon today, expect another 40mm on the divide, and over 30mm within 15km east of the divide.

Buller:  Ranges of Westland north of Otira also Ranges of Buller including Paparoas Further heavy rain is expected today. In the 6 hours from 9am to 3pm Sunday, expect 50-60mm of rain.

Westland: Ranges of Westland south of Otira In the 3 hours from 9am to noon today, expect another 30-50mm. Intensities up to 20mm per hour at times. Heavy Rain Warning, Areas Affected: Ranges of Westland north of Otiraalso Ranges of Buller including Paparoas Further heavy rain is expected today. In the 6 hours from 9am to 3pm Sunday, expect 50-60mm of rain.