The top of the North Island may not be out of the dark just yet - with severe thunderstorm watches for Auckland, Northland and Waikato running into the evening

Some people have been without power for four days - but repair work is ongoing.

Heavy rain warnings also remain in Tasman northwest of Motueka and Mount Taranaki - possibly reaching 120 to 140 millimetres.

Metservice warns the deluge could cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly - and make driving conditions hazardous with surface flooding and slips.

Spots of heavy rain are also expected over the next day in the Buller District, Nelson and North Canterbury