A low which is still rapidly deepening and developing is this morning closing in on northern New Zealand bringing with it heavy rain and gale force winds.

Rain warnings are in force for northern regions of the North Island ahead of the heavy rain.

Winds are expected to increase as the low deepens today and pushes against a high over the South Island.  Winds will reach gale force in exposed areas and for places to the west of main ranges.

Regions most affected by the system will likely be Northland, Auckland, eastern Waikato, Bay of Plenty, East Cape and Hawkes Bay.

The system is expected to stall off the east coast on Monday and may produce unsettled weather well in to next week for those in the east of, potentially, both islands.

WeatherWatch.co.nz will update you throughout the day on the progress of the low.