Metservice says more than 500 millimetres of rain has fallen in the region over the past 24 hours, with at least 80 millimetres falling since midnight.
But the strong band of rain does now appear to be easing, with the steady rainfall now breaking into showers for the rest of the day.
However, Metservice warns some heavy showers could fall in the southern part of the district this morning.
Buller District Mayor Jamie Cleine spoke to Māni Dunlop.
