The Westland region of the South Island is bracing for a deluge of heavy rain today and the mayor is asking residents to be ready.
Metservice has issued a severe weather warning for Westland, with up to 400mm of rain expected in the ranges.
Waiho River at Franz Josef, West Coast. View more images of the storm Photo: NZTA / Twitter
The worst of it is forecast to arrive this afternoon.
Westland District Mayor Helen Lash spoke to Corin Dann.
