Drought, dry conditions and El Niño

Dry conditions can develop anywhere in Northland and the region is currently facing El Niño conditions which could bring drier and warmer weather for the north and east of both islands, especially the upper North Island. Preparing early and using water efficiently can help water supplies last longer and reduce the effects on people, animals and the environment. Dry conditions can occur across the region (even without El Nino influences) with local climate, topography and other regional influences all affecting drought risk.

Current water restrictions

Public water supply restrictions are managed by Northland’s district councils. Visit Be Water Wise Northland for current restrictions in the Far North, Whangārei and Kaipara districts, together with practical water-saving advice.

If you are connected to a town water supply and have a problem with your supply, contact your district council:

Far North District Council - P: 0800 920 029 | W: www.fndc.govt.nz

Kaipara District Council - P: 0800 727 059 | W: www.kaipara.govt.nz

Whangarei District Council - P: 0800 932 463 | W: www.wdc.govt.nz

River, rainfall and water information

Northland Regional Council monitors rainfall, river levels, river flows and other environmental conditions across Northland.

Data from our automated monitoring systems is typically posted every hour. View the latest information on the NRC Environmental Data Hub.

You can also read the latest hydrology and climate reports on the NRC website.

Prepare for dry conditions and save water

During dry conditions, everyone can help by using water efficiently. Water saved early can help household, rural and public supplies last longer.

At home

  • Know where your water comes from and how long your stored supply is likely to last.
  • Have a contingency plan in case your usual water supply becomes unavailable.
  • Regularly check tanks, pumps, pipes and taps for leaks.
  • Keep gutters and tank inlets clear so you can capture rainfall.
  • Use washing machines and dishwashers only when you have a full load.
  • Take shorter showers and turn off taps when they are not needed.
  • Use collected rainwater or suitable household greywater for gardens where it is safe to do so.
  • Follow all water restrictions applying in your area.

More water-saving ideas are available from Be Water Wise Northland

On farms and horticultural properties

  • Include drought and extended dry conditions in business, feed and water-supply planning.
  • Monitor feed, soil moisture and water supplies regularly.
  • Identify alternative water and feed sources before they are needed.
  • Check troughs, tanks, pumps and pipes for leaks.
  • Make early decisions about stock numbers, feed requirements and animal welfare.
  • Seek advice early from your industry organisation, veterinarian or farm adviser.
  • Plan for the health and welfare of workers, whānau and animals.

If you hold a resource consent to take water

Make sure you:

  • understand and comply with the conditions of your resource consent;
  • monitor your water use;
  • check NRC information regularly during dry periods.

How NRC responds to dry conditions

Northland Regional Council monitors weather, rainfall, river flows, groundwater, soil moisture and other indicators to understand how dry conditions are developing across Northland.

During significant dry conditions, NRC may:

  • increase monitoring of critical rivers, streams and groundwater sources;
  • provide environmental information to district councils to support decisions about public water supplies;
  • communicate with consent holders and other water users;
  • work with district councils, emergency services, central government, rural support organisations, health and welfare agencies, and other relevant organisations; and
  • consider whether regulatory measures, including formal water shortage directions, are required.

Rural and farming support

Northland Rural Support Trust

The Rural Support Trust provides free and confidential support to farmers, growers and rural communities. Local rural people can help connect you with financial, business, health and other support services.

Call 0800 RURAL HELP – 0800 787 254 or visit the Rural Support Trust website.

Ministry for Primary Industries

The Ministry for Primary Industries provides information for farmers, growers and their families about preparing for and managing drought conditions.

See MPI guidance on dealing with drought conditions.

MPI’s On Farm Support service can be contacted on 0800 707 133.

Industry guidance

Animal welfare

Plan early for the needs of livestock and companion animals during extended dry conditions.

  • Make sure animals have access to sufficient safe drinking water.
  • Monitor feed supplies and animal condition.
  • Identify alternative water and feed sources in advance.
  • Contact your veterinarian early if you are concerned about animal health or welfare.
  • Contact the Rural Support Trust if you need help with on-farm planning or accessing assistance.

To report an animal welfare concern or ask MPI an animal welfare question, call 0800 008 333. MPI advises farmers to make early decisions and seek advice from veterinarians and trusted advisers when animals may be at risk.

Drought, climate and fire information

The Northland fire indices service displays regional fire-risk information, including fire danger categories and observed and forecast fire-weather information.

Northland Regional Council’s drought research includes assessments of drought monitoring, prediction, rainfall variability and the relationship between meteorological drought and low river flows.

Related information