Heavy rain is being forecast by MetService for parts of New Zealand.

North to northwest gales are also expected for Wellington and Canterbury High Country.

"A front, preceded by strong northerlies, moves eastwards across the South Island today, and moves slowly over the North Island during Sunday," says a MetService spokesperson.

"This front is expected to bring further rain to western and northern parts of both islands, with some heavy falls, and Heavy Rain Warnings and Watches are in force for many areas.

"In addition, north to northwest winds may approach severe gale in Wellington, including the Remutaka Hill Road and also for Canterbury High Country."

People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts, in case any changes are made or further areas are added.

HEAVY RAIN WATCH

Area: Auckland, Waikato and Taupo
Valid: 12 hours from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Sunday
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain, with localised thundery downpours possible. Rainfall amounts may exceed warning criteria in some areas.

Area: Coromandel Peninsula
Valid: 24 hours from 11:00 am Sunday to 11:00 am Monday
Forecast: Periods of heavy rain. Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Area: The central North Island hill country from Waitomo and North
Taranaki to Tongariro National Park
Valid: 16 hours from 9:00 pm Saturday to 1:00 pm Sunday Forecast: A period of heavy rain. Rainfall accumulations may approach warning amounts.

Area: The ranges of Westland north of Otira
Valid: 12 hours from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm Saturday
Forecast: A period of heavy rain, and thunderstorms possible.Rainfall accumulations may approach warning amounts.

STRONG WIND WATCH

Area: Wellington, including the Remutaka Hill Road
Valid: 17 hours from 10:00 am Saturday to 3:00 am Sunday
Forecast: Northerly winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.

Area: Canterbury High Country
Valid: 24 hours from 2:00 pm Saturday to 2:00 pm Sunday
Forecast: Northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places.