A severe weather warning is being issued for the Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Plenty regions.

The MetService is forecasting heavy rain and strong northeasterly winds for parts of the upper North Island.

"A subtropical low lies to the northwest of New Zealand today through to Saturday, directing a strong and humid northeast flow across the North Island," says a spokesperson for the weather organisation.

"Significant rainfall is expected in Northland, Coromandel Peninsula and western Bay of Plenty where Heavy Rain Warnings are in force.

"Meanwhile, Heavy Rain Watches are in force for northern parts of Auckland and Mount Taranaki, and a Strong Wind Watch is in effect for Auckland.

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

Image: MetService.

Heavy Rain Warning - Orange
Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.

Area: Northland
Valid: 24 hours from 10pm Thu 26 Jan to 10pm Fri 27 Jan
Forecast: Expect 100 to 130mm of rain, especially in the east and north, with thunderstorms possible. Peak rates of 10 to 20mm/h expected during Friday morning and afternoon.

Note, once the heavy rain eases, showers are expected through the weekend.

Area: Coromandel Peninsula
Valid: 24 hours from 10am Fri 27 Jan to 10am Sat 28 Jan
Forecast: Expect 100 to 140 mm of rain about the ranges, with 60 to 90 mm nearer the coast. Peak rates of 10 to 20 mm/h expected during Friday afternoon and evening about the ranges.

Note, once the heavy rain eases, showers are expected through the rest of the weekend.

Area: Bay of Plenty west of Whakatane
Valid: 24 hours from 4pm Fri 27 Jan to 4pm Sat 28 Jan
Forecast: Expect 100 to 140 mm of rain about the ranges, with 60 to 90 mm elsewhere. Peak rates of 10 to 20 mm/h expected about the ranges from Friday evening through to around dawn Saturday.

Note, once the heavy rain eases, showers are expected through the rest of the weekend.