David Walker and neighbours Dennis and Bev Walker are staying in their homes at Rapahoe despite the threat from ex-tropical cyclone Gita. Video Jason Oxenham

Footage captured of flooding and evacuations due to Gita cyclone.

Blackouts over the region as cyclone blasts through

Ex-tropical cyclone Gita's fierce winds whipped up Lake Kaniere on the West Coast to resemble a raging ocean. video / Graeme King

A couple have a scary ride along a flooded road in Nelson as Cyclone Gita unleashes her fury on the South Island. Video / Nelson Snippets

Footage has emerged of flooding at both West Bank Road in Motueka and at the end of a driveway flowing onto another road in Motueka. Source: Facebook / @JessKing and Facebook / @LeanneBoyce

Frances Cook reports from Motueka, just outside Nelson, at a river which is 'very fast-flowing.'

Police unable to confirm whether woman has been rescued.

Cyclone Gita is barrelling towards NZ and is due to make landfall this afternoon.

Latest forecasts show the full impact of the storm will be felt overnight in the region.

Rosie Musters talks about preparing for Cyclone Gita as it makes its way to Nelson. / Tim Cuff

Locals are stocking up at supermarket before 150km/h winds arrive.

Authorities in Greymouth are making preparations for those who may be left without shelter as Cyclone Gita hits.

Earlier: Tropical Cyclone Oma will likely crash into Australia's Queensland coast over the weekend but it doesn't mean New Zealand is safe from a barrage of wet and wild weather.

"That doesn't necessarily mean that its going to have less of an impact on the country."

Cyclone Gita is expected to hit the South Island's west coast today.

Flights have been cancelled and roads are closed as Cyclone Gita begins to be felt.

The 26 students will hunker down in cabins during the cyclone.

The top of the south is expected to be hard hit as storm crosses island.

New Zealanders are eschewing traditional emergency items for something more luxurious.

Thousands of school students have the day off as the region braces for ex-Cyclone Gita.

You can ask for a cyclone to be named after you.

Tasman residents brace for cyclone while repairing damage from the last one.

The region is still recovering from former Cyclone Fehi's devastation.

What can you expect in your area from Gita today?

EDITORIAL: Weather warnings are not predictions but it is worth heeding them.