Around a dozen volunteers are working to protect the Greerton Marist Rugby Club.

Sandbags are being prepped in anticipation of a high tide due just before 2.30pm.

The grounds are completely flooded and are threatening the club rooms and netball courts.

Heavy rain warnings and thunderstorm watches have been lifted for the region, but additional rain is still expected to fall in Tauranga.

High tide is also a concern for many.

A Te Puna resident says high tide is not expected until 3pm, "but it is already pretty high now".

The current sea conditions are moderate to strong north-east winds with choppy seas, and moderate short period waves. Winds: NE 19 to 23 knots.

High tide is expected around 2.18pm and and is expected to be 1.9 metres.

Sandbags are being placed around the Greerton Marist Rugby Club to protect the building from flooding. Photos: Josh Hoskin.

Flooding at Greerton Marist Rugby Clubs. Photos: Josh Hoskin.