Widespread flooding is being reported in the Western Bay of Plenty.

Heavy rain has lashed the region since yesterday.

Both lanes of SH29 are blocked after a bank has fallen between Omanawa and Poripori roads.

Flooding is also being reported on SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati, as well as on SH2 near Pongakawa.

People are advised to avoid travelling if possible or take extra care on the roads.

McLaren Falls. Supplied photo.

Bad weather has also forced the cancellation of One Love in Tauranga. Read more here.

A thunderstorm watch is also in place for the Bay of Plenty with more rain expected this afternoon.

A heavy rain warning is also in place for the Bay of Plenty.

Valid: 15 hours from 9am today to 12am tomorrow, the MetService says people can expect another 70 to 100 mm of rain about the ranges, and lesser amounts nearer the coast.

Peak rates of 15 to 25mm/h, but 25 to 40mm/h possible in localised downpours and thunderstorms from this afternoon.

Note, further rain or showers are expected on Sunday, which could be heavy at times with possible thunderstorms, and this warning may be extended.

Flooding on SH2 in Wairoa. Photos: Cameron Avery/SunLive.

Bay of Plenty Police are warning motorists to stay off the roads unless travel is essential.

The rain affecting northern regions is now spreading across Bay of Plenty, causing multiple slips and bringing down several large trees.

Roads are blocked and there is already widespread flooding, which is expected to worsen over the course of the day.

SH2 is closed at Maniatutu with diversions in place, while a landslide is partially blocking SH 29 at Omanawa.