The slip closed near the Porirua interchange closed southbound lanes as rain fell across the lower North Island. Meanwhile, in Auckland, thunder and heavy rain threatened but the Farmers Santa Parade continued regardless of the weather. Meanwhile, Metservice predicted periods of heavy rain for Auckland and possible squally thunderstorms on Sunday. Hamilton too was in for heavy rain and possible thunder and hail. Snow showers at the Crown Range Road and Lewis Pass – both in the South Island – had now cleared, Metservice said.
