Heavy rain and strong winds are expected to hit the North Island this week.

The MetService has issued a severe weather watch for heavy rain for the Coromandel Peninsula, as well as the Northland and Auckland regions.

"A deep low to the west of Northland is expected to direct a strong moist northeasterly flow onto the upper North Island bringing strong winds and heavy rain to Northland, Auckland and the Coromandel Peninsula on Tuesday.

"This heavy rain may bring a significant impact, especially to Northland where the ground is already saturated with water from a previous heavy rain event."

There are currently no warnings or watches in force for the Bay of Plenty region.

HEAVY RAIN WATCH

Area: Auckland and the Coromandel Peninsula

Valid: 15 hours from 6am to 9pm Tuesday

Forecast: A period of heavy rain is expected to affect the area.

Rainfall accumulations may approach warning criteria (eg 75mm in 15 hours.)

STRONG WIND WATCH

Area: Northland

Valid: 9 hours from 8am to 5pm Tuesday

Forecast: Northeasterly winds may approach severe gale at times.

Area: Auckland and Coromandel Peninsula

Valid: 9 hours from 11am to 8pm Tuesday

Forecast: Northeast winds may approach severe gale at times.