Southern parts of the country can expect a lashing of heavy rain and strong wind until early tomorrow morning

An active front moving over the region has prompted Orange weather warnings.

Fiordland can expect up to 100 millimetres of rain from 8pm tonight, which could cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly, as well as surface flooding and slips.

Meanwhile, Clutha, Southland and Stewart Island are at risk of severe northwesterly gales, which could hit up to 120 kilometres an hour.