Photo: RNZThe wild weather that has battered the North Island appears set to make its way south. MetService meteorologist John Law told RNZ the rainfall was sticking around in the north, but gradually moving south. There would also be extremely strong winds, he said. Chief operating officer Alex Marren said strong wind conditions were continuing in Wellington, with forecasts of more than 60 knots. The entire Manawatū-Whanganui region is in a state of emergency with heavy rain, flooding as severe weather lashes the lower North Island.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 15, 2026 21:15 UTC