Residents in the eastern Bay of Plenty should expect heavy rain until Thursday morning.

MetService says a complex low pressure system moves east-northeast over the country today, and it stays slow, moving to the east of the North Island during Thursday, then moves away to the east on Friday.

'This system is expected to bring rain to many areas of the country, with some possible heavy falls, especially for the eastern North Island.”

Matata residents should expect heavy rain, with thunderstorms possible.

'Rainfall amounts may approach may approach warning criteria, especially about the ranges.”

MetService advises people to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case further areas are added or part of this watch is upgraded to a full warning.