Orange Heavy Rain Warnings Issued: Nelson, Tasman, Bay of Plenty Brace for Deluge
WELLINGTON, NZ – July 1, 2025 – Already saturated regions of Nelson and Tasman are once again facing the threat of severe weather, with MetService issuing new orange heavy rain warnings. A significant low-pressure system is set to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to these areas, as well as parts of the Bay of Plenty and the upper North Island, including Auckland, starting from Thursday.
The latest forecast indicates a challenging week ahead for several parts of Aotearoa as a large low over the Tasman Sea and its associated fronts move towards the country.
Nelson and Tasman in the Firing Line: For the Nelson and Tasman districts, which have recently experienced extensive flooding and clean-up efforts, the news is particularly concerning. MetService warns that between 3 AM and 9 PM on Thursday, localized areas west of Motueka in the Tasman District could see rainfall totals of up to 220mm, with peak rates potentially reaching 25mm per hour. The remainder of the Tasman District, Nelson, the Richmond and Bryant Ranges, and the Marlborough Sounds are also expected to receive up to 80mm of rain between 6 AM and 9 PM on Thursday. Authorities caution that streams and rivers may rise rapidly, leading to surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions.
Bay of Plenty Also Under Threat: The Bay of Plenty is also under an orange heavy rain warning. West of Whakatāne, 90-120mm of rain is expected from 8 AM Thursday to 3 AM Friday, with localized downpours potentially reaching 40mm per hour. Areas about and east of Whakatāne could see 100-130mm, with up to 180mm possible near the ranges, between noon Thursday and noon Friday.
Upper North Island on Watch: Further north, heavy rain watches and strong wind watches have been issued for the upper North Island. This includes Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, and the Coromandel Peninsula. These areas can expect localized downpours and strong northeast winds that could approach severe gale force in exposed places from Thursday. Waikato, Waitomo, Taranaki, Taumarunui, Taupo, and Taihape also have a low to moderate confidence of warnable amounts of rain.
MetService advises that this active weather system will bring widespread impacts, and residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed through official weather updates. It is crucial for communities to prepare for potential flooding, slips, and disruptions to travel and daily routines. Secure loose outdoor items, clear drains, and have an emergency plan in place.
The situation remains dynamic, and MetService will continue to update its warnings as the system evolves.
