A relatively gloomy Christmas eve weather-wise, with a risk of rain for areas of both the North and South islands

MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for the ranges of Westland, south of Otira, on the South Island's West Coast.

Near Motueka, a heavy rain watch is in place, with falls expected this afternoon and potential storms this evening.

Further north, rain's expected to fall near Mount Taranaki, with possible Christmas Day storms.

A severe thunderstorm watch comes into force at 1pm today in the Hawke's Bay and Tararua districts.

MetService Meteorologist Claire O'Connor says people should make sure to keep safe on the roads - especially in the area under a thunderstorm watch.