"There were dramatic decreases in water use over the time of the restrictions," he said.
"That meant that during our hottest months which saw record demand for water, people on the ends of the water system suffered less water difficulties than they would have if everyone had stuck to their regular watering habits," he said.
Bringing Brookvale Bore 3 online had eased the situation. Water from the bore goes through a three phase treatment process, including UV light disinfection, filtering and chlorination. A daily testing regime has also been put in place.
The wet weather has also caused delays to road works around Hawke's Bay, which is expected to impact traffic this weekend.
Rain delayed work at the Devil's Elbow yesterday by disrupting tree felling.
NZTA journey manager for Napier Oliver Postings said this work would be completed once the weather improved, and ground dried up.
The wet weather has also disrupted sealing work, with some sites still to seal on State Highway 2 south and State Highway 5.
"Once we get a spell of suitable weather we will be finishing this work," Mr Postings said.
However the current weather forecast shows this weeks rain is not likely to ease up soon.
Metservice meteorologist said Tuporo Marsters today, periods of rain with heavy falls were expected, with around 17ml of rain falling in the early hours of this morning.
Thunderstorms were possible about the ranges afternoon and evening, with a high of 26C.
"Its going to be quite wet for most of [today], though quite warm, it'll be really muggy", he said.
Tomorrow, there would be scattered rain with heavy falls possible about the ranges, and winds turning northwesterly. A high of 25C was forecast, and a low of 16C.
Showers were expected to continue until midday next week. Wednesday would be "the next time you see the sun," Mr Marsters said.
Reconstruction of the rail crossing at Waipukurau is due to start next week. Disruptions will be kept to a minimum wherever possible.
Mr Postings said the exodus from Horse of the Year on Sunday would significantly increase traffic on the road.
"Given the weather forecast for a wet day on Sunday, it is likely that the large number of slower vehicles on the roads may make travel conditions slower than normal."
Next weekend the Gentle Annie cycle race on Saturday, March 18 from Taihape to Hastings will come through the Fernhill intersection and through to Omahu.
This event will affect a short section of SH50 between 1.30pm and 3.30pm in the afternoon.
Then on Sunday, March 19 the Tremains Tri will affect the Meeanee Quay-Bayview section of SH2. Motorists are asked to be mindful of the cyclists on the road and pass carefully, Mr Postings.
- For information on travel conditions head to http://www.drivelive.nz/hawkesbay.