People are being warned to brace themselves for some cooler temperatures in the coming days, with snow forecast for the Desert Rd - State Highway 1 on Thursday.

In its latest weather update, MetService has issued a snowfall warning for the North Island road.

In the six hours from 2pm - 8pm on Thursday, July 17, rain may turn to snow for a time about the road. One to three centimetres of snow may accumulate on the highest parts of the Desert Rd, with lesser amounts down to 900 metres.

Closer to home in Tauranga, periods of rain are expected to develop before dawn, possibly heavy until evening, MetService said.

“Easterlies, turning southerly in the evening.”

Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast for the north of New Zealand. 

"A complex low moves east over the upper North Island during Thursday, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. Severe Weather Watches for heavy rain and strong winds are in force."

A Heavy Rain Watch is in place for Coromandel Peninsula from 6am - 1pm on Thursday, and for Gisborne/Tairawhiti from 1pm Thursday to 12pm Friday, July 18. Periods of heavy rain are expected for both regions.

"Rainfall amounts may approach warning criteria. Streams and rivers may rise rapidly. Surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible.

"Clear your drains and gutters to prepare for heavy rain. Avoid low-lying areas and drive cautiously."

Rain is expected to clear on Friday, with southerlies expected to become strong for a time in the morning.