MetService has warned of heavy rain and winds heading for the lower South Island overnight.
Heavy weather is expected to hit the South Island today. Photo: MetService
The authority released a severe weather warning for Fiordland, Otago, and Westland where 250mm to 300mm of rain was expected today.
Fiordland and Westland also faced a moderate risk of thunderstorms.
Significant spillover was a risk for Otago's lakes and rivers, and people in those areas were warned to watch out for rapidly rising rivers and streams, surface flooding, and slips.
Heavy winds were also expected through Fiordland, Southland, Otago and inland Canterbury until early tomorrow, with northwest gales up to 130km/h in exposed areas.
A severe weather watch was also issued for Marlborough, Wellington, Tararua, and Wairarapa with northwest gales possibly becoming severe until Wednesday evening as the low moved north.