An Emergency Mobile Alert issued at 2:05pm on Sunday advises that while no mandatory evacuations are in place for Whanganui, river levels remain high and some areas will see flooding for some time.

Civil Defence says residents in low-lying areas should stay alert. The Taupo Quay boardwalk is expected to experience inundation, and a number of roads are closed. The alert did not list specific roads.

People are asked not to walk or drive through floodwaters. The message notes floodwater may be contaminated and carry debris.

Authorities ask the public to follow instructions from emergency services and Civil Defence staff, and to keep checking official updates. Further information is available at mwcdem.govt.nz.