Wild weather continues to batter parts of the South Island

A 'red warning' for heavy rain remains across Canterbury as a significant weather unfolds and is due to continue until tomorrow.

Methven saw up to 7.6 millimetres of rain in an hour yesterday afternoon, which is very high, and there's already been 16 millimetres of rain in the ranges.

A strong wind warning is in place for Westland south of Hokitika and Fiordland -- and a heavy rain watch is in place for North Otago and Dunedin.