Bay of Plenty residents are being advised to batten the hatches, with heavy rain, severe easterly gales and kingtides predicted for the region.

MetService has issues a severe weather watch for the region, along with many other regions throughout the upper North Island.

"A low pressure system is forecast to approach New Zealand from the north on Sunday, directing a strong and moist northeast flow over central and northern New Zealand.

"There remains uncertainty as to the exact speed and depth of the low pressure system as it passes over New Zealand during Sunday and Monday.

"This Watch covers the possibility of heavy rain and severe easterly gales affecting regions of central and northern New Zealand.

"A warning for heavy rain is now in force for Gisborne from Tolaga Bay northwards, and for the eastern ranges of Bay of Plenty.

King tides are also forecast this weekend as part of the severe weather.

"When combined with strong easterly winds and large northeast waves, coastal areas exposed to the north and east could suffer from inundation by the sea.

"People are advised to keep up to date with forecasts as some parts of this Watch may be upgraded to a full Warning, or additional areas may be added to the Watch."