Parts of Tasman may experience periods of heavy rain through Thursday with more expected over the weekend.
Metservice has issued a Heavy Rain Watch for Tasman about and west of Motueka including Golden Bay.
The watch is in place from 8am Thursday through to 6pm but another period of "potentially significant" rain is expected on Saturday.
Metservice has also issued the first Red Warning of 2024 with parts of the West Coast set to be hammered by rain in the coming days.
A Heavy Rain Warning - Red has been issued for Westland encompassing Kumara, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Franz Josef and Haast with 600-800mm of rain expected to accumulate about the ranges, possibly more in localised areas.
MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane emphasizes the need for caution as this Red Warning bears similarities to the damaging flooding from March 2019 in which the Waiho bridge was washed away.
“Red Warnings are our highest warning level; they mean significant weather impacts are expected. People need to take immediate action to ensure they are safe, especially those camping near a waterway as there is a danger of flooding.
"For those planning a trip down south this weekend, be aware that this is a significant event and may affect travel plans. Stay up to date with the latest information on the MetService website and have alternative plans if needed."
