The Bay of Plenty region is under an orange weather warning as thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong gales descend on the North Island.

The heavy rain warning comes into force for the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua at noon and is in place until midnight tonight.

MetService said the region could expect 60mm to 100mm of rain with localised downpours possible.

The rain will ease from the west Friday evening.

Streams and rivers may rise rapidly, and surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions were possible, the weather agency said.

Bay of Plenty Civil Defence said via their social media page that people should ensure gutters and drains around properties were clear of autumn leaves and tree debris.

“Be sure to also tie down your trampolines or other heavy outdoor furniture as well.”

Most of the country has been put under a severe weather watch or warning this morning.

Slips and flooding are impacting major roads at the top of the South Island, with parts under a local state of emergency.

Auckland and Northland are both under severe thunderstorm watches.

A heavy rain watch is in place for Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, and Taupō between 9am and 5pm.

The weather is being driven by a low-pressure system in the Tasman Sea, expected to move east of New Zealand tomorrow.

Showers continue for Bay of Plenty and Rotorua on Saturday before becoming mostly fine on Sunday.