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Parts of New Zealand had their driest February for decades, according to the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research.
Lake Tekapo had its driest February in 80 years and Mt Cook its driest in 75 years.
The South Island's West Coast enjoyed the sunshine, with Hokitika recording its sunniest February since measurements began 93 years ago. But Northland's rainfall was double the normal February quota, with some parts of the region receiving more than 200mm between February 5 and 7.
- NZPA