Farmers in Bay of Plenty are being told to keep a close eye on river levels as heavy rain continues to pound the region.

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has issued warnings on the Otara, Waimana and Waioeka rivers in the east of the province, and urged farmers to move stock to higher ground where possible.

Council Flood Manager Bruce Crabbe says levels peaked on Monday night, but farmers should still watch river levels closely.

“All four rivers in the area have peaked overnight, though there’s more rainfall forecast this evening and through to tomorrow morning, so we’re waiting and seeing what she decides to do.

"We’ve put out first warnings to low lying property owners over most radio stations, but I imagine most farmers would have got out and shifted their stock nice and early.”