Nelson’s Maitai River in June 2025.
Photo: Samantha Gee / RNZ

The top of the South Island is effectively cut off at the moment, with a number of state highways closed.

A state of emergency has been declared for Nelson and Marlborough as a result of severe weather and evacuations.

Tasman District Council says the declaration will allow agencies to rapidly respond, with slips and flooding across the district and further rain forecast.

Meanwhile, MetService has issued a “red level” severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Northland, Auckland and Waikato, as torrential rain hits the upper North Island.

Fire and Emergency North has attended about 14 weather-related call outs, mainly in the Auckland region – a majority concerned fallen trees across roads and downed powerlines.

High winds could close the Auckland Harbour bridge on Friday morning, NZTA warned on Thursday.

Fire and Emergency is helping residents amid extensive flooding in Richmond and Motueka.

Follow the RNZ liveblog for the latest weather updates: