Heavy rain and gale northerlies will hit the South Island from Sunday.

Heavy rain and gale northerlies will hit the South Island from Sunday.

MetService warns of potentially dangerous rainfall totals in parts of the South Island, while eastern regions are forecast to enjoy unusually warm autumn temperatures.

600mm of rain could fall in the Tasman region in the coming days.

Significant heavy rain will fall in parts of the South Island from Sunday, and the North Island from Monday, the MetService is forecasting.

600mm of rain could fall in the Tasman region in the coming days.

Over the long weekend orange warnings will be in place for Tasman, Buller, Westland and the Richmond Ranges.

Severe weather warnings are in force for parts of the South Island today.

Authorities are urging holiday drivers to take extra care due to possible slips, floods and road closures.

Significant heavy rain will fall in parts of the South Island from Sunday, and the North Island from Monday, MetService is forecasting.

Travellers are urged to leave early to avoid heavy rain across key routes.