The West Coast can breathe a sigh of relief as heavy rain moves further north, with Nelson now bracing for surface flooding and slips as the wet weather rolls in.

MetService has issued a heavy rain warning for the Nelson area from midday Friday to Saturday.

Between 100 and 120mm of rain is expected, which could cause some surface flooding and slips.

Meanwhile, the heavy rain warning for Buller, Westland and Canterbury has now lifted.

Greymouth was the hardest hit, with flooding in the town centre prompting evacuations on Thursday, after 150mm of rain fell after a long period of drought.

Grey District Council said the weather had caused significant issues around the region, including the closure of roads.

Meanwhile, a Severe Weather Watch has been lifted for Canterbury thanks to improving conditions.

MetService says heavy rain from Timaru northwards has eased.