A local State of Emergency has been declared for Westland.

State Highway 6 between Makarora and Ross is now closed.

Travellers have until 6pm tonight to leave the road.

Anyone camping in the region should find accommodation at the nearest township in a campground or motel.

The heaviest rain to hit Westland is now expected to arrive this evening (Friday January 19).

Officials are trying to work out whether to evacuate homes before dark as a precaution.

A heavy rain red warning is in place for the region, until Saturday morning, with 500 to 700 mm of rain expected to accumulate about the ranges, and 100 to 200 mm about the coast.

The worst of it is expected between 10pm Friday and 6am Saturday.

PHOTO: Coasters Club