Severe weather warning for Bay of Plenty

A severe warning has been issued for the Bay of Plenty and bad weather is already taking its toll.

MetService says expect the worst later in the day and into the evening, predicting heavy northeasterly rain and isolated thunderstorms.

A slip has partially blocked State Highway 2 near Opotiki. And motorists are being diverted in the town of Waihi - due to a hole in State Highway 25 - between Clarke St and Seddon St.

Police say traffic is being diverted around the northern side of the town. It is not clear how long the highway will be closed.

- NEWSTALK ZB