State of Emergency Declared In Southern New Zealand

A state of emergency has been declared for the Southland Region of New Zealand due to widespread flooding.

Residents are advised to leave low-lying areas near the Mataura River and Wyndham.

Seaward Downs and Riversdale residents have been advised to prepare to evacuate if required.

Milford Sound has received an astonishing 1000 mm of rain since Saturday, which has already exceeded the February average of 306 mm in just 5 days.

The risk of flooding isn't over yet. A cold front moves northeast over southern and central New Zealand on Saturday, bringing a period of rain to many regions.