A new Civil Defence campaign is urging New Zealanders to “Get The Flood Out” following weeks of severe weather that have battered parts of the country.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says the “GTFO” campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of floodwaters.

“Over the past fortnight, our three main centres—along with regions like Northland—have been hit hard by severe weather and widespread flooding,” said Civil Defence Emergency Management Director John Price.

“Unfortunately, people keep entering floodwaters and getting themselves into strife. It’s a recipe for tragedy. Floodwaters can kill.”

Floods are Aotearoa’s most frequent and damaging natural hazard, and also among the most dangerous.

“Floodwater can contain sewage, toxic chemicals and hidden debris. It can drown you or sweep away your vehicle with you in it,” Price said.

“If you find yourself in rising waters, get to higher ground immediately. Don’t wait for an official warning.

“Do not try to walk, play, swim, or drive in floodwater. Even 15 centimetres can knock you off your feet, and just half a metre can carry away most vehicles.”

The campaign also highlights the danger to children, warning caregivers not to let them play in floodwaters.

The Selwyn district has officially lifted its state of emergency as weather conditions improve. 

In consultation with emergency management authorities, Mayor Sam Broughton ended the declaration at 3pm today.

While the formal emergency has concluded, Broughton acknowledged many residents, particularly in rural and township areas, were still grappling with flood damage and support would continue over the weekend and into next week.

“We’re moving into recovery, and we’ll stand by those affected,” Broughton said. 

"Some roads remain impacted, and residents are urged to drive with care."

All roads along Wellington’s south coast have now reopened to through traffic following an initial storm clean-up by city council crews.

Motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians are urged to take extra care.

A more thorough clean-up is scheduled for next week.

Despite the heavy seas over the past two days, council staff say road and footpath damage has been minimal.

Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell says further Government support will be provided to Selwyn. 

It will be up to Selwyn Mayor Sam Broughton to assess the situation on the ground and determine what assistance is needed.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger earlier said a state of emergency would remain in place for Selwyn, Banks Peninsula and Christchurch. 

They hadn't intended to make that call yesterday. "And then we found out yesterday at 3 o'clock that the rain wasn't abating like we thought it would."

Emergency Management Minister Mark Mitchell says a lot of surface flooding has been seen in Selwyn, and some roads in Little River remain affected by floodwaters.

He praised the community response, saying: “The best way we can strengthen our response and be resilient when we are dealing with these weather events is to act as a community.”

“Thankfully, the weather is starting to abate,” Mitchell said, while warning: “We are not out of the woods yet.”