Civil Defence says the worst of the flooding in Southland is over.
NC Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King
More than fifty millimetres of rain has hit parts of the region's coastline today, causing widespread surface flooding.
Civil Defence controller Angus McKay says much of the flooding has drained away, and they'll be getting an update tomorrow morning.
The residents of one house in Invercargill have been offered alternate accommodation, after having had water leak inside.
Two more properties - another in Invercargill and one in Otatara - have also had water inside.
Some roads are closed as Civil Defence responds to the rain.
Civil Defence Controller Angus McKay says contractors are signing as many roads as possible, but are being stretched and don't have many signs left.
He says rivers are still rising, but no major issues are expected.
McKay said people should not travel, and report all surface flooding to their local council.
He said the weather has meant increased pressure on the stormwater network which has caused the surface flooding.
Southland Mayor Gary Tong said the flooding was significant and unusual.
"It's certainly significant ... for it to hit the coast now like it is now," he said. "That band all across the coast is quite unusual and there's no wind so it's just sitting there and dumping it down."
He said council staff and contractors were out on the roads working to unblock drains and put up signage.
Heavy rain has caused flooding on rural roads and in towns including Riverton and Otautau, across to Invercargill, Winton, Mokoreta, Edendale to Wyndham, Gore, Fortrose and Tokanui.
In Riverton, police have asked motorists and the public to avoid flooded streets.
Taramea Bay and Walker Street are now blocked off to avoid water being pushed into houses by traffic and pedestrian movement.
Colac Bay and Orepuki should also be avoided due to excessive flooding in the wider area.
There are also slips on Steward Island and in the Caitlins.
Civil Defence Southland says drivers need to be aware that there is a lot of surface flooding.
Contractors are erecting warning signs and clearing culvert blockages.