There has been significant rainfall overnight with the Waihi, Kakahu and Geraldine area recording 150 – 180mm rain so far.

Rain is forecast to continue until Monday. 

Environment Canterbury said river levels are high and rising. 

“Out of river flooding is expected in low parts of Geraldine near the river, and is occuring in low lying areas between Geraldine and Temuka including around the Hae Hae Te Moana and Kakahu rivers and in the Arowhenua area. “

The agency said there’s some overtopping of the Waihi River from Beeby Road downstream on both sides. 

Staff are monitoring the Waihi River closely for increases in out flow or more significant breakouts.

The Orari River is about 500 cumecs and still rising with the possibility of overflow into low lying adjacent land this morning.

Other rivers in the South Canterbury region are high but currently not causing out of river problems.

Staff are monitoring the situation.

Christchurch Streets flooded

Severe flooding is now affecting the following roads:

• Avonside Drive, between Linwood Avenue and Fitzgerald Avenue.

• River Road, between Banks Avenue and North Avon Road.

• Retreat Road, between Patten Street and Swanns Road.

• Fitzgerald Avenue, between Kilmore Street and Cambridge Terrace.

Road closures

Flooding has forced the closure of the following roads:

River Road, from Banks Avenue to Medway Street, is now closed due to flooding.

• Aynsley Terrace, from Centaurus Road to Opawa Road.

• Clarendon Terrace, from Sheldon Street to Opawa Road.

• Richardson Terrace, from Opawa Road to Mackenzie Avenue.

• McCormacks Bay Road.

• Cumnor Terrace, from Chapmans Road to Garlands Road