MetService New Zealand has issued heavy-rainfall watches for parts of the South Island and lower North Island from Monday (06 October) through Tuesday (07 October) as a frontal system brings unstable weather conditions.

• Tararua Range: From 0100 to 0800 hours (local time) on Tuesday (07 October), a period of heavy rain is expected, with rainfall amounts possibly approaching warning thresholds. There is a moderate likelihood of the watch being upgraded to a formal warning.
• Headwaters of the Canterbury Lakes and Rivers (south of Arthur’s Pass): From 1600 to 2400 hours (local time) on Monday (06 October), heavy rainfall is forecast, with totals potentially nearing warning criteria within 15 km east of the main divide. A moderate chance exists of this watch being upgraded.