Orange heavy rain warnings are in place today throughout the Bay of Plenty.
The warning is in place untill 1pm Tuesday 2 June about and west of Whakatāne, and until 6pm east of Whakatāne.
MetService said the region can expect 30 to 100 milimeteres of rain on top of what has already fallen, with peak rates of 10 to 20 milimeters per hour.
It said peak rates could increase to 25 to 40 milimeters per hour in possible localised downpours on Tuesday morning and in the early afternoon.
There is a "minimal chance of upgrading to a Red Warning."
MetService said surface flooding, rising water levels, slips and difficult driving conditions are possible.
It advise the community ensure drains and gutters and clear, avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously.
NZTA have closed the Waioweka Gorge as a precaution from 6pm Monday 1 June, due to the heavy rain warning.
It is closed until further notice.
“The Opotiki closure point will be Waioeka Pa Road. The second closure point will be at Opato,” it said.
“Allow extra time for a long detour via SH30 and SH5.”
NZTA said there has been some rockfall over night, and crews will fully inspect the road when it is safe to do so.
$75M Boost for Waioweka Gorge Resilience in Budget 2026
Motorists Urged to Take Care This Long Weekend
Average Speed Cameras Activated on SH2 West of Matatā
