UPDATED 8.51PM: The thunderstorm activity which has caused widespread flooding in Tauranga is easing.

The MetSerive says there remains a risk of severe thunderstorms with localised downpours around Western Bay of Plenty and southern Coromandel Peninsula (between Tauranga and Pauanui) through to about 10pm.

"Rainfall of this intensity can cause flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.

"Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain."

Lightning captured on camera above Mount Maunganui. Photos: Melissa Tierney.

The calm after the storm. Photos: Tesh Poultney.

EARLIER:

Thunder, lightning and heavy rain is being reported in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty as a thunderstorm sweeps across the region.

The MetService has upgraded this morning's watch into a warning this evening.

Flooding is being reported in Tauranga, with reports of the river about the burst its banks near Fraser St down by the estuary.

Cameron Road, from 15th Ave through to Greerton, is flooded, reports a caller to the 0800 SUNLIVE news hotline.

Flooding in Fraser Street. Photos: Cameron Avery.

Flooding is also being reported on 21st Ave, 15th Ave and Fraser Street lights.

There are also reports of a house being flooded on Fraser Street.

"These severe thunderstorms are moving towards the north, and are expected to lie near Tauranga, Te Puke, Mount Maunganui, offshore Mount Maunganui and Papamoa," says the MetService.

"These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain.

"Very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous," says the weather organisation.

Surface flooding in Bay of Plenty

Motorists in the Bay of Plenty are advised to take extra care on the roads this evening.

There is surface flooding in parts of Tauranga - this includes Cameron Road, Fraser Street, Eleventh Ave through to Fifteenth Ave, and to Greerton, says police.

Roads are also affected in eastern parts of Rotorua, including Te Ngae Road (SH 30).

"Motorists are asked to drive to the conditions and limit their travel if possible.

"Local councils, and Fire and Emergency NZ, are responding to incidents as required."

The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management advises that as storms
approach you should:
- Take shelter, preferably indoors away from windows;
- Avoid sheltering under trees, if outside;
- Move cars under cover or away from trees;
- Secure any loose objects around your property;
- Check that drains and gutters are clear;
- Be ready to slow down or stop, if driving.
During and after the storm, you should also:
- Beware of fallen trees and power lines;
- Avoid streams and drains as you may be swept away in flash flooding.

This warning is due to be updated or lifted by 08:15 pm Monday 18 December 2017.

Flooding in Gravatt Road. Photo: Jason Rosnell.

Ngatai Road. Photo: Alison Pickering.

Flooding in Tauranga, Otumoetai. Photo: Shinae Stewart.