Heavy rain is being forecast for past of the North Island, including the Bay of Plenty.

The MetService has issued a severe weather warning for the region.

A low over the Tasman Sea is expected to approach the North Island during Tuesday, says a spokesperson for the weather organisation.

"A front moving northwards should combine with the low to bring heavy rain to parts of the North Island.

"The front is expected to become slow-moving over, or just to the north of, Northland on Wednesday and then begin moving back south on Thursday.

"This is likely to bring an extended period of moderate or heavy rain to Northland.

"There is some uncertainty with the exact track of the low and front, and further Watches or Warnings may be added, or the current Watches could be upgraded.

"People are advised to check the latest forecasts and warnings."

Image: MetService.

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HEAVY RAIN WARNING - ORANGE
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Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.

Area: Bay of Plenty ranges east of Opotiki
Valid: 12 hours from 8pm Tuesday to 8am Wednesday
Forecast: Expect 80 to 100 mm of rain to accumulate.