Heavy rain is predicted for the ranges of Eastern Bay of Plenty today the MetService says.

MetService forecaster Peter Little says a front, preceded by a moist northwesterly flow, is expected to bring a period of rain to northern New Zealand today.

The weather watch is for the possibility of heavy rain reaching warning criteria in the rangers of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

'A burst of heavy rain and thunderstorms is likely from this afternoon until tonight (60mm possible in nine hours.

'People are advised to keep up to date with forecasts in case this watch needs to be upgraded to a warning.”