Heavy rain is being forecast for northern areas of both islands today, including the Coromandel Peninsula and the Kaimai Range.

In its latest weather update, the MetService said a low to the north of the country is sending a humid subtropical flow over New Zealand, bringing heavy rain to parts of the North Island.

“Meanwhile, a front moving east towards southern New Zealand is expected to bring heavy rain to parts of the South Island late Monday and during Tuesday.

“People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts.”

The tropics have come to us, and they've brought the moisture

Coromandel and Northern Gisborne/Tairawhiti are currently under Orange Rain Warnings until 8 and 9pm tonight, respectively.

Keep up to date here: https://t.co/qHyE5zySvx pic.twitter.com/j2EETkL0EO

— MetService (@MetService) February 16, 2025

Heavy rain warning - orange

Area: Coromandel Peninsula and the Kaimai Range.

Period: Eleven11 hours from 9am to 8pm on Monday, February 17. 

Forecast: Expect 70 to 90mm of rain to accumulate about the ranges in addition to what has already fallen, with lesser amounts near the coast. Rainfall intensities may reach 15 to 20mm/h. The chance of upgrading to a red warning is minimal.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.

Area: Gisborne/Tairāwhiti north of Tolaga Bay

Period: Twelve hours from 9am to 9pm on Monday.

Forecast: Expect 70 to 90mm of rain in addition to what has already fallen. Peak rates of 10 to 15mm/h expected this morning and afternoon. There’s a minimal chance of an upgradeing to a red warning.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.

Area: The ranges of the Tasman District northwest of Motueka

Period: Ten hours from 9pm on Monday, Feb 17

Forecast: Expect 80 to 100 mm of rain. Peak rates of 20 to 30mm/h expected tonight and early tomorrow morning. Note, further periods of brief heavy rain can be expected during Tuesday afternoon and Tuesday night. A red warning is unlikely.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.