News National Heavy rain alerts have been issued across parts of the South Island as forecasters warn of possible surface flooding and slips. MetService has orange heavy rain warnings in place for Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound and the Buller and Westland districts.  This orange level of warning means that surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible. Heavy rain watches are in place for the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers and the Canterbury lakes and rivers south of Arthur's Pass where the amount of rainfall may approach warning criteria. New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi encouraged road users to prepare and factor the rain and forecast gales into any travel plans.…