Heavy rain and possible severe gales for parts of New Zealand

Updated at 10.50am to add Heavy Rain Watch for Wellington, Horowhenua Kapiti Coast, and the Tararua Range.

An active front moves northwards across the upper South Island preceded by heavy rain.

Meanwhile, a complex trough moves onto the North Island, accompanied by strong and very moist northeasterlies, bringing heavy rain, and possible downpours.

Warnings and watches are in force, including severe thunderstorm watches.

Please stay up to date with the latest forecasts.

Area: Northland

Period: 9hrs from 9am - 6pm Fri, 9 May

Forecast: Expect 60 to 90 mm of rain, but possibly up to 120 mm in localised areas, especially in downpours and possible thunderstorms. Peaks rates of 25 to 40 mm/h. Note, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is also in force for the region. Low chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously. Preparedness advice.

Area: Bay of Plenty east of Maketu, and Gisborne/Tairawhiti north of Ruatoria

Period: 21hrs from 9am Fri, 9 May - 6am Sat, 10 May

Forecast: Expect 100 to 140 mm of rain, mainly about the ranges. Downpours possible. Peak rates of 20 to 40 mm/h. Note, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is also in force. Minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously. Preparedness advice.

Area: Tongariro National Park

Period: 11hrs from 9am - 8pm Fri, 9 May

Forecast: Expect 80 to 120 mm of rain, with possible downpours. Peak rates of 20 to 30 mm/h. Minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously. Preparedness advice.

Area: Taranaki Mounga

Period: 6hrs from 9am - 3pm Fri, 9 May

Forecast: Expect a further 100 to 150 mm of rain, with downpours possible. Peak rates of 20 to 40 mm/h. Note, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is also in force. Minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning.

Impact: Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions possible.

Action: Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously. Preparedness advice.

Issued: 10:50am Fri, 9 May
Next update: 9pm Fri, 9 May
Action advice supplied by the National Emergency Management Agency.