Heavy rain is being forecast for the Coromandel Peninsula.

The MetService has issued a severe weather watch for the region as heavy rain and easterly gales are predicted for the upper North Island.

"An active front associated with a subtropical low moves over the upper North Island during Sunday and Monday bringing periods of heavy rain and easterly gales," says a statement from the weather organisation.

"Heavy Rain Watches are now in force for Northland, Auckland and Coromandel Peninsula and Strong Wind Watches are also in place for Northland and northern Auckland.

"Please keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case any Watches are upgraded to warnings, changes are made or more areas are added."

Heavy Rain Watch

Area: Northland
Valid: 42 hours from 9pm Sat 29 Apr to 3pm Mon 1 May
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.
Note, heavy rain may ease for a time during Sunday afternoon and evening.

Area: Auckland north of Harbour Bridge including the Great Barrier Island
Valid: 15 hours from 3am Sun 30 Apr to 6pm Sun 30 Apr
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.
Note, validity period may be extended into Monday.

Area: Coromandel Peninsula
Valid: 33 hours from 6am Sun 30 Apr to 3pm Mon 1 May
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Strong Wind Watch

Area: Northland
Valid: 36 hours from 12am Sun 30 Apr to 12pm Mon 1 May
Forecast: Easterly winds may approach severe gale at times.

Area: Auckland about and north of Whangapararoa including the Great Barrier Island
Valid: 33 hours from 6am Sun 30 Apr to 3pm Mon 1 May
Forecast: Easterly winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.