Rain and low cloud have hit the North Island this morning, causing traffic hold-ups around the capital and bringing a warning for campers and trampers. (NZ Herald Tuesday 8th January 2008)Heavy rain warnings remain for both islands, but the weather will ease in the South Island during the day. The upper North Island will escape the worst of the front moving through the country.
Motorists have been urged to take care on State Highway 1 between Otaki and Levin in Horowhenua, after massive downpours left surface flooding.Sergeant Noel Bigwood said the Tararua Ranges behind Otaki had so far today recorded 176.5mm - 14mm more than the previous daily record.
Mr Bigwood said the flooding across the highway had come from the Waitohu Stream that had burst its banks.
"It's causing a lot of disruption and we're advising people not to travel unless they really have to. And if they do, allow plenty of time."