A rahui is in place for the northern coastline of the South Island following torrential rain

One person died yesterday from floodwaters south of Wakefield, as Nelson Tasman and Marlborough were in states of emergency.

Heavy rain has caused major closures across rural and national road networks - caused by slips, surface flooding, and damage.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith, says a large amount of contaminant has entered the coast and Tasman Bay.

He says it has been compounded by wastewater - leading to the rahui for swimming and taking shellfish.