MetService has forecasted heavy rain over for the upper North Island on Tuesday.
Photo: Screengrab / MetService

MetService is warning residents in Northland to prepare for severe gales, heavy rain and possible thunderstorms.

Rainfall could exceed warning criteria, with thunderstorms and localised downpours possible, MetService said.

It warned people to avoid low-lying areas because streams and rivers could rise rapidly.

Flooding and slips were also possible, it said.

⚠️ Severe Weather Update ⚠️

A Heavy Rain Watch has been issued for Northland (10pm Mon – 4 pm Tue) ️
A Strong Wind Watch has been issued for Northland (3am – 5pm Tue)

A low may form north of the country on Monday and then move over the northern North Island during… pic.twitter.com/k85cvl2xMA

— MetService NZ (@MetService) April 4, 2026

The region is under a rain watch from 10pm on Monday until 4pm on Tuesday, with a high possibility of it being upgraded to a warning.

A strong wind watch will also be in place on Tuesday until 5pm.

On Tuesday Nelson to Westland is also expected to be hit by heavy rain, easing by Wednesday.

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