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Wet, wet, wet – Rain is all around for the top of the South Island again

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 9 Jul 2025 10:10am | Nelson and Marlborough

With more wet weather forecast for an already soggy and saturated top of the South Island, local drivers are encouraged to keep a close eye on the roads.

Metservice has issued a Heavy Rain Watch for areas around Tasman, Nelson, and Marlborough from this afternoon until Friday afternoon/early Saturday morning.

The weather will affect:

  • State Highway 60 - Richmond to Collingwood
  • State Highway 6 – Nelson to Murchison
  • State Highway 6 – Nelson to Blenheim
  • State Highway 1 – Picton to Seddon
  • State Highway 63 – Renwick to Kawatiri Junction

Because the region has already suffered extensive heavy rain over the past few weeks, soils are saturated and extra rain does bring a risk of more flooding, slips, and rockfalls.

This means drivers must exercise caution, drive to the conditions, and be alert to the possibility of weather-related hazards.

Wet roads are slippery roads, and driving at the speed limit can be too fast for the conditions. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, avoid sudden braking, and make sure your headlights are on if visibility is poor.

Flood waters can hide hidden dangers and water flows may be stronger than they appear – drivers are urged not to drive through flooded areas and to respect any road closures that may be in place.

Road users should check road and weather conditions before they travel. Drivers are also encouraged to report any faults they see on the state highway network.