Some cloud-to-ground lightning from near Waihi Beach to Tauranga have been recorded, according to NIWA.

The MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel, as well as other parts of the North Island.

Unstable, humid conditions over central and northeastern parts of North Island are producing scattered thunderstorms, which are likely to continue into the early evening, says the weather organisation.

'For southern Coromandel Peninsula, the Kaimai Range, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, northern Taupo and the ranges of northern Hawke's Bay and Gisborne, there is a risk that some of these thunderstorms could become severe, producing localised downpours with intensities of 25 to 40mm per hour.

'Rainfall of this intensity can cause flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.

'Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain.”

MetService says it will continue to monitor the situation closely for severe thunderstorm development and will issue further updates.

Some cloud-to-ground lightning from near Waihi Beach to Tauranga. Be sure to say off the water/beach when lightning is nearby! pic.twitter.com/397JZnt7ak

— NIWA Weather (@NiwaWeather) December 17, 2017

This watch affects people in the following weather forecast districts:

Coromandel Peninsula

Waikato

Bay of Plenty

Rotorua

Taupo

Gisborne

Hawke's Bay