A local state of emergency has been declared for the Canterbury region, following extraordinary levels of rainfall over the weekend.
Between 300 and 400 millimetres of rain have fallen about the Canterbury High Country and foothills over the past 24-hours.
Rivers are overflowing, hundreds of houses have been evacuated, and there are numerous road closures across the region.
The New Zealand Defence Force and Fire crews have all been assisting with the response, helping people evacuate out of their houses.
More than fifty schools and kura have closed on Monday, which another 24 early learning services have confirmed they won't be opening.
In Selwyn, a 'Do Not Consume' notice has been issued for the Springfield water supply - urgent bottled water supplies are available at Springfield Fire Station.
Selwyn District Mayor Sam Broughton spoke to Corin Dann.
