There are multiple warnings and watches in place for several parts of the country (file photo). Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
An active front is forecast to sweep up over southern and central New Zealand bringing heavy rain and strong winds heading into the weekend.
MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the Westland District from 9pm this evening, and for Buller and parts of Tasman from early morning Saturday.
It said the Westland District, especially near the glaciers, could experience a significant, short duration of heavy rain on top of recent downpours in the area.
Authorities are closely monitoring the Waiho River in preparation for the wet weather.
The West Coast Regional Council said last week's deluge shifted the Waiho River, and 95 percent of its main channel is now flowing into the Tartare Stream.
Waiho River was swollen under the bridge during last week's severe weather. Photo: Tess Brunton / RNZ
Chief executive Darryl Lew said officials have been preparing in light of the forecast, with another meeting due to be held early this afternoon.
Meanwhile, a wind warning was in place for the Canterbury High Country from midnight.
There were also multiple heavy rain watches in place for Saturday, including for the Taranaki, the Tararua Range, the Canterbury High Country, Southern Lakes, and Fiordland.
MetService warned there also strong wind watches for the Wairarapa, Wellington, Southern Lakes, Westland and Fiordland.
It advised the public to keep up to date with forecasts as it said watches may be upgraded to warnings.
