A fatal incident in floodwaters has shaken a North Island community as a powerful weather system continues to intensify across parts of New Zealand.

An elderly man died after his vehicle became submerged in floodwaters near Puketotara in the Ōtorohanga district on Friday evening. Police said one person was found deceased inside the vehicle. The man was identified as Brent Knowles, remembered by family and the local fishing community as a familiar face and regular customer.

A tribute posted by a Kawhia fishing charter described him as a valued regular. In messages shared online, loved ones said he was deeply cherished, with his daughter describing him as a “beautiful Dad” and saying the loss had left her heartbroken.

Local leaders urged residents to look out for neighbours and take extra care on the roads, as communities begin the difficult work of clean-up in flood-affected areas.

Severe weather system deepening

Forecasters say a significant low-pressure system is deepening east of the North Island, bringing the risk of heavy rain, severe gales and rough seas to large parts of the eastern and southern North Island, the upper South Island and the Chatham Islands. For official warning updates and regional maps, readers can check the latest guidance from MetService.

Orange rain and wind warnings are already in place, and forecasters cautioned conditions could still ramp up as the system shifts and deepens.

Where rain may hit hardest

Orange heavy rain warnings cover parts of Gisborne/Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay, inland Whanganui, Manawatū, Wairarapa and the Tararua Range. Rainfall totals of 100mm to 160mm are forecast in some eastern hills and ranges, with bursts of up to 30mm an hour possible overnight from Sunday into Monday.

That amount of rain can cause rapid rises in streams and rivers, surface flooding, slips and dangerous driving conditions in vulnerable locations.

Heavy rain watches remain in place for:

• The rest of Hawke’s Bay
• Wellington
• Eastern hills and ranges of Marlborough and Canterbury between Seddon and Amberley

Strong winds could reach 130km/h

Strong wind warnings have been issued for Wairarapa, Tararua District, Wellington and eastern Marlborough, where south to southwesterly gusts could reach 130km/h in exposed areas. Forecasters say there is a low to moderate chance some areas could see warnings upgraded if the system deepens further.

Strong wind watches also extend across:

• Manawatū
• Taihape
• Whanganui
• Horowhenua
• Kāpiti Coast
• Inland Marlborough
• Chatham Islands

Emergency teams remain on alert as flooding and severe winds threaten travel, power lines and exposed coastal areas. Residents are being urged to avoid unnecessary journeys during peak conditions and to be especially cautious where water covers roads, as even shallow floodwaters can overwhelm vehicles quickly.