A heavy rain watch has been issued for the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty regions today.

The MetService is forecasting more heavy rain for parts of northern and central New Zealand.

Possible severe gale northeasterlies for northern North Island are also expected.

"A strong and humid northeast flow covers northern and central New Zealand, with bursts of heavy rain and thunderstorms likely for a number of regions today through into Wednesday.

"Warnings and Watches remain in force for heavy rain and possible severe northeast gales.

"People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case any changes are made, or further areas are added."

Heavy Rain Watch
Area: Coromandel Peninsula
Valid: 18 hours from 12am Wed 1 Feb to 6pm Wed 1 Feb
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain, with thunderstorms possible. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Area: Bay of Plenty, including Rotorua
Valid: 21 hours from 6am Wed 1 Feb to 3am Thu 2 Feb
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain, with thunderstorms possible. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Area: Richmond and Bryant ranges, Rai Valley area and the Marlborough Sounds
Valid: 4 hours from 9am Mon 30 Jan to 1pm Mon 30 Jan
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria in some places.

Area: Tasman northwest of Motueka
Valid: 6 hours from 9am Mon 30 Jan to 3pm Mon 30 Jan
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain, with thunderstorms possible. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria in some places.

Note, another burst of heavy rain is expected on Wednesday and early Thursday, and another Watch may be issued closer to the time.