People are already leaving their homes at the top of the South Island, as the flood-hit region faces another round of heavy rain

Orange warnings have been issued for Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough - which remain under local States of Emergencies.

Bay of Plenty, Taihape and Mount Taranaki are also in for a deluge.

Residents in low-lying areas of Nelson were encouraged to evacuate last night, and many are already out.

Herald visual journalist George Heard says Tasman District Council's most worried about townships in Riwaka and Brooklyn.

He says these areas have streams through the townships - adding Fire and Emergency teams are on standby.