Weather: Hundreds evacuated, state of emergency as flooding hits Tasman, West Coast

Hundreds of people in Nelson spent the night out of their homes and a state of emergency was declared after the Maitai River burst its banks. Follow updates with RNZ's blog here.

Slips, flooding and washouts are affecting roads across the Tasman District with more rain on the way. A state of local emergency is in place for the Nelson-Tasman and West Coast regions.

Occupants of 233 homes near the Maitai River in Nelson were evacuated after the river burst its banks, and another 10 households in the Tahunanui Hills had to leave overnight because of a slip.

Heavy rain has begun hitting Northland and causing flooding, with water covering the main road in Kaeo, and businesses closing up and focusing on protecting their properties.

People in 160 homes in low-lying parts of Westport who were asked to leave on Wednesday in case their homes were flooded have been allowed back home, Buller District Council said.

Watch: Buller mayor and civil defence controller give a briefing on the flooding:

• If you witnessed the flooding and weather impact in your region and would like to share (pictures, video, newstips) with us, please email: iwitness@radionz.co.nz

Follow updates here