MetService has issued a Severe Weather Watch for parts of New Zealand on Sunday.

Strong westerly winds are expected for the central North Island, says a MetService spokesperson.

"West to northwest winds are expected to strengthen over the central North Island for a time from Monday afternoon to Tuesday morning.

"These winds could approach severe gale in exposed parts of Taranaki, and about and east of the ranges of Hawke's Bay and the Tararua District."

A watch for severe gales is in force for these areas.

People are advised to keep up to date with latest forecasts in case new watches or warnings are added.

There is a Strong Wind Watch in place for Taranaki which is valid for six hours from 1pm to 7pm on Monday. Northwest winds may approach severe gale at times.

There is also a Strong Wind Watch in place for Hawke's Bay south of Te Haroto and the Tararua District north of Pahiatua, mainly for inland areas east of the ranges. This is valid for 17 hours from 4pm Monday to 9am Tuesday. West to northwest winds may approach severe gale at times.