Horizons Regional Council warns of dry conditions for the region

Horizons Regional Council monitoring dry conditions in the region.

Low levels of rainfall and warm weather have made for unusually dry conditions in the Manawatū-Whanganui region, with water restrictions a possibility.

Horizons Regional Council’s rainfall monitoring network shows much of the region has had less rainfall than average for the past four months, particularly Rangitīkei, Manawatū and Tararua.

“There has been some scattered rain recently, which has seen flows in some rivers increase. However, those Tararua and Rangitīkei areas are still much drier than average,” council environmental data manager Brent Watson said.

“Groundwater levels also remain low, as these areas still have large rainfall deficits going back four months.”

Watson said Tararua was expecting further rain but it may not be enough to sufficiently raise groundwater levels after months of dry conditions.

A Horizons Regional Council rainfall monitoring site in Rangitīkei has had less rainfall than average in the past four months.

The council said if these dry conditions continue, some catchments will go into low flow restrictions – the managing of the flow of water in a stream during a drought.

“Consent holders should check their resource consent conditions for minimum flow conditions,” Watson said.

“Those with telemetered water takes, once registered on our WaterMatters website, can check their relevant minimum flow and water use volumes and manage their water takes accordingly.”

Senior emergency management advisor for resilience, Matthew Putt, said having a plan for accessing and storing extra water for stock and keeping track of stock is important.

“If you’re struggling with dry conditions on your farm, we encourage you to reach out to your neighbours, industry groups and support networks such as Rural Support Trust,” Putt said.

The Ministry for Primary Industries also has information available on its website.

People are also encouraged to help reduce water consumption by adhering to local restrictions put in place by councils.

Limiting or ceasing sprinkler and hose use is one way the general public can assist this summer.