Tauranga water levels are being monitored ahead of storm

Lakes and rivers around the Bay of Plenty are being monitored as heavy rain and high winds are expected in the coming days. Photo/ File

Lakes and rivers around the Bay of Plenty are being closely watched as heavy rain and high winds are expected in the coming days.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council duty flood manager Peter Blackwood said 120mm to 160mm of rain is expected across the region from 9pm tomorrow to 6am on Friday.

"This may result in minor river flooding and some coastal flooding particularly given recent high tides," Blackwood said.

He said farmers were advised to be mindful of stock kept beside small streams which could rise rapidly.

Rivers have not reached their first warning levels and are not expected to at this stage, Blackwood said.

Campers and others near the coast should also be extra vigilant of possible inundation and waves.

Coastal areas and streams around Rotorua, Tauranga and the western Bay of Plenty were expected to be the worst affected.

"However, based on the expected wind speed we wouldn't expect any homes to be impacted by waves and coastal flooding," Blackwood said.

Wind gusts were predicted to reach 120km/h in some places.

Jono Meldrum, Emergency Management Bay of Plenty group duty controller, said heavy rain could cause rivers and streams to rise rapidly, as well as surface flooding and slips, so it was important people were prepared.

"Useful preparation tips include tying down outdoor furniture and loose objects and ensuring gutters are clear of leaves, a little bit of planning goes a long way," Meldrum said.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Bay of Plenty Civil Defence are monitoring the situation.

People are also advised to stay updated by listening to the local radio, or by visiting the Bay of Plenty Civil Defence website www.bopcivildefence.govt.nz.