Consistent rainfall since 5am this morning has resulted in Wanganui's stormwater system working to near capacity to divert rainwater into the city's pumping stations.

Julian Reweti, Infrastructure Manager, describes both storm water pipes and the Beach Road pumping station as working "flat out", in response to the continuing heavy downpours.

Council engineers have inspected sumps and drains across Wanganui and cleared a number of blocked sumps. There is currently minor surface flooding in the Castlecliff area and some minor slips are occurring.

"The city area is generally coping with the rainfall, which is expected to ease later today and clear by Wednesday. However, particular areas such as Putiki have sewer blockages and stormwater backing up and engineers are currently on site.

"The Matarawa Stream is at a high level and currently being assessed. The diversion system is operating at maximum capacity."

Mr Reweti says a particular concern is the rural areas. "The ground is now saturated and it is likely there will be further slips and flooding in some rural areas. There are currently five local roads closed at the moment, and it is possible that more may be closed." Mr Reweti urged motorists to exercise caution when travelling on rural roads in the current wet conditions and to report any slips or flooding to the council, phone 349 0001.

The following local roads have been closed:

Kauarapaoara Road - due to slips Tokomaru West Road - due to slips Kaukatea Valley Road - due to flooding Longacre Road - due to flooding Okoia Road - due to flooding