Coast travel delay urged after floods

Police are advising motorists to delay any travel on the South Island’s West Coast because of heavy rain, which is particularly affecting South Westland. Several slips and flooding were reported between Hokitika and Haast. MetService said a front would move north across the South Island, bringing heavy rain to western parts. Buller can expect up to 150 mm of rain, and the ranges 200mm. Flooding may occur across the region, and driving conditions may be hazardous, according to a Metservice orange heavy rain warning, which was expected to be in place until 6pm today.