Despite weather extremes, an Auckland climate scientist is unconvinced about the role of human-induced global warming.

People living near rivers and streams in the Tasman District should be prepared for a rapid rise in water levels overnight, with heavier falls forecast to continue, Civil Defence says.

Has anyone noticed that "100 per cent pure New Zealand" has quietly been changed to "100 per cent pure you"?

The Civil Defence is working to stem flooding near the Avon River mouth to the estuary in Christchurch this morning.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are set to batter the Bay of Plenty until tomorrow morning, Metservice warns.