New Zealand warns North Island flooding could hit again after man dies in heavy rain

Officials warned further flooding could affect New Zealand's North Island after heavy rain caused power outages, road collapses, evacuations and the death of a man whose vehicle was submerged.

New Zealand officials have warned that more flooding could affect the North Island after several days of heavy rain. The recent storms already caused power outages, road collapses and home evacuations. Authorities reported a man died when his vehicle was submerged on a highway. A state of emergency was in place for the Waipa and Otorohanga districts. Key facts: - The weather bureau warned of dangerous river conditions, significant flooding and slips as a deepening low-pressure system brought heavy rain and severe gales. - A man was reported to have died after his vehicle was submerged; about 80 people were evacuated to an emergency centre. - A state of emergency was declared for Waipa and Otorohanga, and about 4,291 properties remained without power on the North Island. - Forecasters said the worst weather was expected to hit late on Sunday, with conditions easing slowly on Monday. Summary: The heavy rain has caused fatalities, power outages and infrastructure damage across parts of the North Island. Officials have warned of further flooding and forecast the worst conditions late on Sunday, with a slow easing expected on Monday.