A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the region.
Metservice said in a statement scattered heavy showers with thunderstorms were expected to develop over the central North Island this afternoon.
For Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, and Taupo there is a moderate risk that some of these thunderstorms could become severe producing localised downpours of 25 to 40mm/hr.
Rainfall of this intensity can cause flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips.
Rotorua is expected to reach a high of 23C today with Taupo getting to 24C.
