A severe weather warning has been issued for the Bay of Plenty with predictions heavy rain bursts expected to hit the region.

A deepening complex trough of low pressure approaching central New Zealand from the Tasman Sea during today and Tuesday, is expected to bring periods of heavy and possibly thundery rain to northern and central New Zealand during Tuesday and Wednesday.

The heaviest falls are likely in the following areas: Bay of Plenty and the far north of Gisborne, where up to 100-120mm may accumulate in 12 to 18 hours, especially about the hills and ranges of Bay of Plenty.

'People are advised that this rain could cause rivers and streams to rise rapidly, surface flooding, slips and make driving conditions hazardous,” says the MetService.

'Rain is expected to become heavy early Tuesday morning, before easing at night. In the 18 hours between 6am and midnight Tuesday, expect 100-120mm to accumulate about the hills and ranges, with 70-90mm possible elsewhere. Peak intensities 20-30mm per hour Tuesday afternoon and evening with possible thunderstorms.”