Weather live: Evacuations underway after separate landslides in Otago

Follow our liveblog above for the latest updates

The Kaikōura District Council says floodwaters are receding across the district and building inspections are being carried out following severe weather.

The council says people who chose to leave their homes, and weren't subject to an official evacuation request, can return if their property hasn't been damaged.

Protection works have been put in place after the Kowhai River breached its banks.

Road closures remain in place, including State Highway 1 from Ward to Waipara, and people have been told to avoid unnecessary travel.

Meanwhile, MetService says it will be wet and miserable for the next two days in the capital and surrounding areas, with the weather moving north from Kaikōura to Wairarapa.

Showers are expected to ease and become isolated by Matariki on Friday.