Rotorua was under an orange heavy rain warning yesterday with MetService warning that streams and rivers could rise rapidly, increasing the risk of surface flooding.
Drivers were being warned of possible slips and hazardous conditions, especially in hill country and rural areas.
Underdown said the Rotorua fire brigade was called to the incident around 10pm. Firefighters helped the person get across the road to where they could be seen by ambulance staff.
A Hato Hone St John spokesman said the service was called just after 10pm. An ambulance had taken one person with moderate injuries to Rotorua Hospital.
NZME has requested further comment from police.
Meanwhile, State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge is closed due to a slip discovered overnight, NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) says.
People are urged to delay travel where possible or allow at least three hours of extra time for a long detour, either via State Highway 35 or State Highway 5.
NZTA crews will continue monitoring and maintaining the detour route to ensure it remains safe and accessible.
While the orange heavy rain warning has been lifted, the entire North Island is now under a severe weather watch as Cyclone Vaianu bears down from the tropics.
While the exact track of the Category 3 storm isn’t yet clear, the worst weather is expected to hit on Sunday, with power outages, flooding and road closures possible.
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