A front is moving east over the upper South Island Saturday evening, then over the North Island Sunday morning.

This front has already brought heavy rain to Fiordland, Westland, and the Otago and Canterbury Headwaters, which has now eased.

The rain is easing about Buller and northwest Nelson and the warning has now been lifted, however, a further 20-30mm is likely about the ranges until midnight tonight (Saturday).

Severe northwest gales, gusting 120 km/h, have eased about inland Canterbury, but are currently affecting northern parts of Marlborough, Wellington, and the Wairarapa. The gales are expected to ease about Marlborough, Wellington, and Wairarapa tonight with the passage of the front.

People in all these areas are advised to exercise caution, and to keep up to date with the latest warnings and forecasts.