🟧🟡Heavy Rain Watches and Warnings, ⚡Thunderstorms and Downpours⛈️⛈️The risk of downpours due to thunderstorms is there for all of the North Island and very top of the South Island, with the exception of Gisborne and northern Hawke's Bay. “There is also a risk of thunderstorms for quite a large portion of the North Island in the second half of the day.”Seth has a look at what's expected to be a busy day of weather on Thursday:⛈️ Areas of heavy rain and numerous thunderstorms will affect the North Island and upper South Island. pic.twitter.com/ocE0WynS5A — NIWA Weather (@NiwaWeather) January 14, 2026That could be extended through the northern parts of the North Island. Taranaki Maunga is also under a heavy rain warning until 11pm, with up to 100mm of rain expected to fall and peak rates of up to 40mm/h. A heavy rain warning is in place for Marlborough, north of Ward, until 5pm.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 14, 2026 16:28 UTC