A strong wind watch is currently in force for the Bay of Plenty today.

The MetService is forecasting heavy rain for the southern parts of the South Island, along with severe gale west to southwesterlies for parts of New Zealand.

In its latest weather update, the weather organisation says a cold strong southwest flow affects New Zealand, delivering heavy rain to the southern South Island today, and strong west to southwesterly winds to many areas.

"A heavy rain warning is now in place for Clutha and Southland, which now also includes Dunedin.

"Strong wind warnings are now in force for eastern Otago, Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island, while strong wind watches remain in force for many other parts of New Zealand.

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

Strong Wind Warning - Orange

Strong wind gusts could damage trees, powerlines and unsecured structures. Driving may be hazardous, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

Area: Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island
Valid: 6 hours from 3pm Mon 3 Jul to 9pm Mon 3 Jul
Forecast: Expect severe gale west to southwesterlies gusting 120 km/h in exposed places.
Note, another period of possible severe westerly gales is likely about the Coromandel Peninsula on Tuesday and a Watch may be issued closer to the time.

Strong Wind Watch

Area: Northland, Auckland excluding Great Barrier Island, Waikato, Waitomo, and Bay of Plenty west of Whakatane
Valid: 6 hours from 3pm Mon 3 Jul to 9pm Mon 3 Jul
Forecast: West to southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.
Note, Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island have now been upgraded to Orange Warnings.
Also, another period of possible severe westerly gales is likely about the Coromandel Peninsula and western Bay of Plenty on Tuesday and another Watch may be issued for that area closer to the time.

Area: Taranaki, the Central High Country, Whanganui, Manawatu, the Tararua District and Hawke's Bay about and south of State Highway 5
Valid: 8 hours from 11am Mon 3 Jul to 7pm Mon 3 Jul
Forecast: West to southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.
Note, another period of possible severe westerly gales is likely on Tuesday about the Central High Country and the ranges of Hawkes Bay and another Watch may be issued closer to the time.

Area: Wellington and Wairarapa
Valid: 5 hours from 2pm Mon 3 Jul to 7pm Mon 3 Jul
Forecast: South to southwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.