More flood warnings for Auckland, Waikato regions

Authorities in New Zealand said Saturday that three people had died and at least one was missing after record levels of rainfall pounded Auckland, the country's largest city, causing widespread disruption.

According to local media reports, a fourth person who had been missing was also confirmed dead. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins flew to Auckland on a military plane after a state of emergency was declared in the region. He said the priority is to ensure that Aucklanders are safe, housed and have access to the essential services.

Friday was the wettest day ever recorded in Auckland, according to weather agencies, as the amount of rain that would typically fall over the entire summer hit in a single day. On Friday evening, more than 15 centimeters of rain fell in just three hours in some places. One person remained missing after being swept away by floodwaters, police added.