Southern parts of Auckland and Waikato are at risk of thunderstorms tonight.
"We are looking at some pretty chunky thunderstorms, intense downpours, some claps of thunder and some lightning as well," Hines said.
A heavy rain watch is also in place for these regions. Although rain eased this morning, it is expected to pick up again this afternoon and evening.
A few of these thunderstorms could be severe producing localised downpours of 25-40mm/h.
Heavy rainfall may cause surface and flash flooding, especially around low-lying areas, which may cause slips.
A heavy rain watch is also in place for Coromandel Peninsula, and Bay of Plenty from Opotiki westwards, Hawke's Bay, Wairarapa and the Tararua District.
