Heavy rain and northerly gales are expected throughout the region today. A heavy rain warning is in place for the Kaimanawa Range and eastern Bay of Plenty Ranges.
MetService said an active front preceded by a strong moist northerly flow is moving over the upper South Island and is forecast to move eastwards across the North Island today and tomorrow.
A trough follows this front, bringing persistent showers to the South Island West Coast on Sunday.
A heavy rain warning is in force for Westland, Buller and Nelson, including the Richmond Range, and now includes Taranaki and Tongariro. A strong wind warning is in force for the Canterbury High Country.