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POSTED ON: 7 July 2026 | IN: News, Notices & Updates

Heavy Rain Warning – 7-8 July

Kia ora South Wairarapa,

Page updated at 10.30pm Wednesday 8 July

MetService has updated their Heavy Rain Watch to a Warning for Wairarapa and the Tararua Ranges until 6am Thursday 9 July.

We can expect 80 to 120 mm about the Tararua Range, and 40 to 80 mm about the eastern hills of Wellington and Wairarapa. Peak rainfall rates 10 to 20 mm per hour.

Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous. It’s expected that river levels will continue to rise which could impact some of the routes in and out of Martinborough.

Following damage to the Tawaha Sill and floodway during the recent weather, the SH53 Waihenga Bridge will now close at around 4 metres instead of 4.5 metres. This is a temporary measure until the damage is repaired.

Road closures

Council facilities update

  • South Wairarapa District Council office is closed on Wednesday 8 July.
  • Martinborough library is still open and Greytown and Featherston libraries are also open as service centres.

General advice

  • Move stock to higher ground
  • Make sure you have enough supplies at home to last a few days if you become impacted by road closures.
  • If you live in a low lying area or are prone to flooding, consider self evacuating to family or friends.
  • Take care on the roads and drive to the conditions.
  • Never walk, swim or drive through flood water. Respect road closures notices and signs, no not try to pass through.
  • Please report issues to Council via Antenno or 06 306 9611

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