Photo: Marika Khabazi
Storms have eased overnight though parts of the country may still experience strong winds and showers today.
The lower North Island and far north of the South Island will see showers and strong winds as a low pressure system crosses the country, MetService said.
A watch is in place for heavy rain about the west of the Tasman District.
South Taranaki, coastal Whanganui, Manawaū and the Tararua District may experience severe gale west to northwest winds and watches are in place in these regions.
On Sunday, the weather was expected to settle down as the low pressure system moves off the country.
Heavy Rain spreading over Wellington
— MetService (@MetService) April 13, 2024
Keep an eye on the radar here: https://t.co/prKU7NLNY1 pic.twitter.com/H1Ma291So1
Westland Mayor Helen Lash said the effect weather-induced road closures on tourism businesses in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier will be significant.
Multiple slips closed State Highway 6 -- the only route connecting the two glacier towns -- as heavy rain battered the region this week.
All roads in the region have now reopened but Lash said the three-day closure of the main highway has affected tourism operators.
The region was recovering quickly, and was open for business, she said.
Heavy Rain Watch
— MetService (@MetService) April 12, 2024
Period: 8hrs from 8am - 4pm Sat, 13 Apr
Area: Tasman northwest of Motueka
Strong Wind Watches
Period: 4hrs from 1pm - 5pm Sat, 13 Apr
Area: South Taranaki coast and coastal Whanganui
Period: 6hrs from 4pm - 10pm Sat, 13 Apr
Area: Manawatu and the…
Meanwhile a tiny township on the West Coast was left without power after stormy weather took down some poles.
New Zealand Energy, the provider for Hannah's Clearing near Haast, said three poles fell on Wednesday and several more came down the next day.
Outages were affecting the south of the township.
NZ Energy said Saturday that power was now restored.
