People planning on travelling around Northland are being urged to stay put, if they can

MetService has issued a Heavy Rain Warning for the region -- with thunderstorms, strong winds, and up to 160 millimetres of rain forecast for some areas.

Waka Kotahi says it will likely impact holiday traffic, and cause further delays.

It says people who have to head home should remain alert while driving, and expect the unexpected.

The agency is asking motorists to drive to the conditions, slow down, and maintain a greater following distance than normal.