Bursts of heavy rain are being forecast for the Bay of Plenty as the region remains on watch for severe weather.

The MetService says a very moist, sub-tropical airmass covering the North Island is likely to bring bursts of heavy rain or showers to northern New Zealand.

Heavy rain and showers are forecast for today and possibly tomorrow. Image: MetService.

Further south, a cold front followed by a strong cold southwest change is expected to reach the lower South Island overnight Sunday and early Monday, then cross the North Island during Monday afternoon and evening.

'Bursts of heavy rain are expected on Monday for Auckland, Waikato, Waitomo, Taumarunui, Tongariro National Park, Taupo, Rotorua and Bay of Plenty, where rain accumulations could reach short warning criteria (eg 50mm in 6 hours or 70mm in 12 hours),” says a statement from the MetService.

'On Tuesday, the potential heavy rain should move to the north of the North Island and accumulations may approach warning criteria about Coromandel Peninsula, Auckland, Great Barrier Island and Northland.”