State of Emergency Declared as the Maitai floods

Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese has declared a state of emergency after the Maitai river in Nelson East breached its banks.

Nelson Tasman Civil Defence Emergency Management is asking people who live near the river from the Nile St Bridge to the Golf Course to evacuate.

People are being asked to stay with friends and family if you are able.

If people have no safe place to go, they should head to the Saxton Stadium where they will be able to gain assistance.

Mayor Reese says there are preparations underway to look after people who need to leave their homes and there will be trained people on hand to offer support.

People are being asked to take pets, essential medications and warm clothing.

Civil Defence is asking people to avoid bridges and rivers.