An Orange Heavy Rain Warning was issued by MetService New Zealand earlier today for Marlborough, running from 9am Thursday 26 June to 6pm Friday 27 June.

The region is expecting significant rainfall especially about the ranges. Peak rates of 20 to 30 mm/h or more, expected from Thursday late afternoon. There is still uncertainty about the duration of this event and a moderate chance of it being upgraded to a Red Warning. Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are likely.

Marlborough Emergency Management Controller Richard MacNamara said it was a dynamic event.

“All of Marlborough’s emergency and lifelines agencies are up to speed and our response teams are ready to go.”

“While the rain forecast remains somewhat uncertain, the weather system does have the potential to stall and deliver additional rainfall on Friday.”

“With the Wairau River stop bank at Spring Creek in a compromised state*, we are taking the precaution of advising residents of Spring Creek township to plan to evacuate their homes from 6am Friday, tomorrow morning. They can leave this evening if they wish but the key time when the river may be running high is from early tomorrow morning.”

“Spring Creek residents are asked to stay with family or friends - have a grab bag ready and take pets and prescription medications with them.”

The affected streets in Spring Creek are Dodson, Hathaway and March streets, and part of Ferry Road. Further updates will be provided, primarily through Marlborough District Council’s Facebook page and the Antenno alerting app.

Sign up to Antenno here: https://www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/apps/antenno

Keep an eye on MetService for watch and warning updates at www.metservice.com/warnings/home

NZ Transport Agency are urging drivers to be ready for bad weather driving conditions on the region’s roads. Read the latest update at: www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic-bulletins/wet-and-windy-weather-on-the-way-for-top-of-the-south-drivers

Remember, it is always important to be prepared. For further information on emergency preparedness go to: https://getready.govt.nz/emergency/floods

*Spring Creek stop bank at Peninsula Road - background information

During the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake, the stopbank experienced lateral spread, which was masked by road seal on Peninsula Road. The July 2021 Wairau flood further weakened its resilience and emphasised the need for a capital upgrade to maintain the current level of service, providing one in a 100-year flood protection.

In January 2023, the Peninsula Road Stopbank project was reprioritised, and preliminary investigation works began. Funding was secured through the Long-term Plan process, with geotechnical investigations starting in May 2024, followed by initial design work.

A $8.7M construction programme was agreed with the community in May last year, which includes $3.6M funding from Central Government. The project involves significant groundwork, which will commence in November 2025. During this period, rock and materials will be stockpiled near the site, temporary infrastructure like haul roads will be built, and other preparations made. This will help us maximise the construction window in November 2026.

The Council has worked with the community to secure co-investment from central government for this project successfully. As the final design and construction approach near completion, Council plans to present a comprehensive update from its design team and contractor in early August 2025.

The community's welfare and safety remain paramount during this period and are a constant consideration during flood events and planning.

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