A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for several parts of the central North Island.

Intense slow-moving thunderstorms could bring localised downpours of 25 to 40 millimetres an hour from this afternoon to later this evening.

Waitomo, Taumarunui, Taupo, Taranaki, Taihape and Wanganui could be affected.

The storms could cause slips, poor visibility and flash flooding in streams, rivers and low-lying valleys.