Heavy rain and strong winds are set to lash parts of the country as the nation commemorates Anzac Day.
Several (yellow) watches and (orange) warnings for heavy rain and strong winds have been issued by MetService/Te Ratonga Tirorangi for Thursday.
"People are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts," the forecaster said.
A front is forecast to track northeast, moving across the South Island/Te Waipounamu during the day.
But ahead of the front, there will be strong northwest winds - possibly severe gale-force in exposed places - from Southland/Murihiku all the way to Canterbury High Country/Waitaha.
Heavy rain is also expected over Fiordland/Te Rua-o-te-Moko and over Westland District's ranges.
MetService warned the public to be alert for surface flooding, slips and rapidly rising rivers and streams.
Heavy rain warnings
A heavy rain (orange) warning applies to Westland District, mainly about the ranges, from 5am to 2pm on Thursday (lasting nine hours).
Expect 70-90mm of rain, peaking up to 25mm/h.
Thunderstorms are possible too and more rain is expected here on Thursday night and Friday morning.
Heavy rain watches
A heavy rain (yellow) watch applies to Fiordland/Te Rua-o-te-Moko from 3am to 11am on Thursday (lasting eight hours).
There may be a period of heavy rain and possible thunderstorms.
Further rain is forecast to fall later in the day too.
Strong wind warnings
A strong wind (orange) warning applies to Canterbury High Country/Waitaha, from 2am to 7pm on Thursday (lasting 17 hours).
Expect severe gale northwesterlies, gusting up to 120 km/h in exposed places.
People should be alert for possible damage to trees, powerlines and unsecured structures, MetService said.
