A state of emergency was declared in the New Zealand city of Nelson after the Maitai River breached its banks, on August 17, as heavy rain swept across the South Island.

Nelson Tasman Civil Defence urged residents in affected areas to evacuate, after Mayor Rachel Reese declared a state of emergency.

“Stay with friends and family if you are able… If you have no safe place to go, head to the Saxton Stadium. Take pets, essential medications and warm clothing”, the Civil Defence said.

A heavy rain warning was issued by New Zealand’s Met Service for the Nelson region on Wednesday, with an estimated 250-400 mm (9-15 inches) of rainfall expected to hit over the next 24 hours.

This footage, filmed by Twitter user @theobrominated, shows floodwaters submerging parts of Dodson Valley Road in Nelson. Credit: @theobrominated via Storyful