Heavy rain in Christchurch caused flooding in New Brighton on Tuesday morning, but the waters have since receded.

A complex low-pressure system, known as a “Tasman Sea Special,” caused the downpour, according to MetService meteorologist Dom Barry.

Flooding was reported along Marine Parade at the intersection with Pacific Road and near Cygnet Street.

City councillor Celeste Donovan said crews removed sand from the outfall pipes and flooding subsided once the pipes were cleared.

Council traffic management was in place at Cygnet Street in North New Brighton due to surface flooding.

Heavy rain and thunderstorm watches were issued for Northland, Auckland, and the Coromandel, though not for Canterbury.

A council spokesperson said “in general terms, our observations have been that there was parts of town, that due leaf fall, some sumps became blocked which slowed the surface water draining away.

“Out east we are aware of a couple of locations where surface flooding occurred however contractors were onsite early this morning managing traffic and clearing the key outfalls. Once this occurred the water drained away quickly.”

Metro Bus said route 135 is taking a detour, and it is likely that the 653 afternoon School Service to Southshore will also need to detour.

Please note the affected streets below to plan your journey accordingly:

• Marine Parade/Beach Road between Broadpark Road and Effingham Street

• Pandora Street from Marine Parade

• Pacific Road from Marine Parade

• Cygnet Street from Marine Parade