Strong winds batter parts of NZ, roads to reopen in Whangārei
Heavy rain and flooding in New Zealand's Whangārei region have begun to ease, with local authorities planning to reopen affected roads. Meanwhile, MetService has issued new warnings for strong winds and snow in other parts of the country.
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<p>Several roads are closed in Whangārei after heavy rain caused flooding, however, the region is in for a reprieve.</p> <p>MetService meterologist Braydon White said the forecaster has lifted its rain warning for the region and that yesterday's heavy downpours have eased.</p> <p>He said up to 120 millimetres of rain fell in an hour in some parts, while there was up to 90mm in an hour in Kerikeri.</p> <p>The closed roads include Russell Road, Ngunguru Road North, Otonga-marua Road, Marua Road, and Kaiikanui Road.</p> <p>Several other roads were down to a single lane because of surface flooding.</p> <p>In an update on Sunday, the Whangarei District Council said the effects of the heavy rain have been only minor.</p> <p>A Civil Defence spokesperson said there was flooding and small slips in some places.</p> <p>The council said all roads that were closed due to the downpour will be open today.</p> <p>Fire and Emergency said…
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