A State of Emergency has been declared in Ōtorohanga, after the district was hit by widespread flooding and heavy rain.
The declaration took effect immediately when it was signed at 12:57am and expires in seven days.
Mayor Rodney Dow said there had been reports of flooding, slips and inundation.
“The situation in Ōtorohanga is serious, and with nightfall upon us, it’s important we are prepared and have the right controls in place to provide help and support, including required evacuations if needed.”
Significant flooding and slips have closed highways in Ōtorohanga, Waikato, as heavy rain hits the region.
Heavy rain warnings and watches are in place for much of the North Island, with downpours likely to continue into Saturday morning.
An orange heavy rain warning is in place for Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty including Rotorua and Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti.
Meanwhile, Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Waikato and Waitomo as well as Hawke’s Bay and Manawatū are all under a heavy rain watch.
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