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.

People in northern and eastern areas of the North Island are being advised to take precautions as heavy rains threaten to sweep across those regions tonight and tomorrow, with a possibility of flooding in coastal and low-lying areas.

The national drowning toll for the first two months of the year rose to 35, after 15 drownings in February.

Jill Worrall revisits a childhood haunt that has also inspired authors and film makers.

Geoff Cumming was lured to France on the promise of a cruise down the Rhone through sun-drenched countryside and beautiful vineyards.