Heavy rain is being forecast for the Bay of Plenty.

The MetService has issued a severe weather watch for rain for the central North Island, along with the Tararua Range.

"A front is moving slowly east across the North Island today and tomorrow, preceded by a period of northerly rain.

"The heaviest falls are forecast for the central North Island hill country from Taranaki across to eastern Bay of Plenty, and the Tararua Range."

The MetService says people are advised to stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings.

HEAVY RAIN WATCH

Area: The eastern ranges of Bay of Plenty
Valid: 16 hours from 6am to 10pm Tuesday
Forecast: A period of heavy rain.

Area: Taupo, Taumarunui, Waitomo and southern Waikato
Valid: 15 hours from 7pm Monday to 10am Tuesday
Forecast: A period of heavy rain.

Area: Tongariro National Park
Valid: 22 hours from 11am Monday to 9am Tuesday
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain.