Blocked roads cleared around Nelson

Blocked roads have been cleared across the Tasman District after an easing in the heavy rain which hit the region overnight.

A severe weather warning for the eastern Bay of Plenty has also been lifted as heavy rain has passed to the east.

Roads in Wakefield, Kohatu, Motueka, Brightwater, Appleby and Richmond were affected by minor flooding last night.

Tasman District Council spokesman Chris Choat said the roads have now been cleared.

"A slip blocked both lanes of the Motueka Valley Highway, that was cleared about 8 o'clock and that was reopened.

"There were some slips on the Motueka River West Bank Road, just minor slips that closed it to one lane, but they've been cleared now.

"Waimea West Road between Eves Valley Rd and Challies Rd was closed last night due to surface flooding but that has since reopened."

Mr Choat said the council received no further calls overnight.

"The rain has shifted off and river levels are dropping - the rivers were very low prior to the rain so they all coped."

In the eastern Bay of Plenty heavy rain has eased, however isolated thunderstorms are still likely tonight, especially about the northern part of the Raukumara Range.