Heavy rain has caused flooding, multiple slips, fallen trees and power outages in Westland overnight.

A Civil Defence spokesperson said NZTA contractors worked hard to reopen State Highway 6 between Ross and Hasst on the West Coast.

“Good progress was made this morning, and the sections of the state highway between Haast Pass and Franz Josef, and Ross and Whataroa opened around midday.

Further work was required on the road between Whataroa and Franz Josef.

This part of the highway remains closed as the bad weather has brought down powerlines.

The route will be reopened once the local lines company has restored the network.