Rain will continue to blanket much of the country this weekend, with heavy falls expected in the north, forecasters say.

Heavy rain was predicted for Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Coromandel, Taupo, Bay of Plenty and the Gisborne ranges today.

“Although it is uncertain if rainfall amounts in theses areas will meet warning criteria, people should be aware rivers and streams may rise rapidly and surface flooding is possible,” Metservice forecaster Heath Gullery said.

Showers and drizzle were expected over the rest of the country, with some fine spells in Wellington, Wairarapa, Nelson, Buller, Westland and Fiordland.

Rain was likely continue tomorrow over much of the North Island and far northeast of the South Island, Mr Gullery said.

New Zealand Transport Authority today advised motorists in the Central Plateau and Alpine Passes to watch for ice and grit, especially in shaded areas.