Heavy rain causes flooding across country

Heavy rain caused chaos around the country this morning with reports of flooding and multiple vehicle crashes, and police warning drivers to slow down.

Wellington police cautioned motorists to drive with care after a 12 to 15 car collision near the bottom end of the Ngauranga Gorge on State Highway 1, this morning.

Inspector Peter Stokes said roads in Wellington were slippery due to rain.

"There have been a lot of minor collisions and at this stage nothing serious except for a lot of cars bent out of shape," he said.

Motorists should also they kept their distance behind the vehicle in front.

Rain in the top of the North Island was also causing problems for motorists.

Heavy rain caused flooding on SH1 near the Northland town of Kawakawa, while light rain was adding to difficulties caused by a chemical spill on one of Hamilton's main traffic routes.

The chemical spill in Hamilton stretched over a large stretch on the Cobham Drive section of SH1, Senior Sergeant Eddie Carr said.

"We've had light rain, which has made things greasy and hasn't helped to wash the spill away," Mr Carr said.

"We've had quite a few accidents, though none have been serious."

Council staff were attempting to clean the spill up but motorists were being asked to avoid the road if they could.

Flooding and fallen trees caused problems for motorists near Kawakawa this morning.

Fire Service northern communications centre shift manager Colin Underdown said two trees fell about 3.45am and blocked a winding stretch of SH1 just south of Kawakawa.

The road was reopened as the trees were cleared but widespread surface flooding added to the hazards for drivers.

The road was clear by 5am but police warned motorists to take care.

In the South Island there were reports of surface flooding on roads in the Motueka area.

- NZPA