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Dry conditions are expected to continue across the Auckland region until at least mid-April.
According to NIWA climate reports, rainfall has been below normal since January, with Whangaparāoa Peninsula receiving only 13.4mm of rain in February compared to the historical average of 67mm.
The extended dry spell led Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) to declare a prohibited fire season across the Auckland region on March 14, and it’s expected to remain in place until significant rainfall arrives to reduce the severe risk of fires spreading.
Auckland Council Parks Committee chair, Councillor Ken Turner, says that rural and forest areas are extremely dry, despite high humidity and occasional light rain, creating a significant risk of fire outbreaks, which won’t improve until the regions receive substantial soaking rain.
“We have entered a period of heightened caution, and forecasts suggest it may be some time before this situation changes. We must do everything possible to prevent fires, especially in remote areas and exotic forest regions,” Cr Turner says,
Even though some showers fell across Auckland over the past week, NIWA and MetService are predicting little rain for the rest of this month.
Metservice meteorologist Katie Hiller says, however, that models are hinting that the end of March and beginning of April should see a return to more average rainfall numbers as the high pressure systems that have sat in the Tasman and brought drier weather are set to decrease.
The dry conditions are being felt across the Coast, especially by properties on tank supply. Jodie Norwood of Hibiscus Water says they currently have six tankers running at full capacity.
“We are delivering 60 to 65 loads a day across the Coast and Rodney district,” she says. I’d advise anyone getting low to give water suppliers at least two to three days’ notice. Even if we do get rain, it takes time to catch up, so check your tanks early so you don’t get caught out.”
Auckland’s water supply dams are sitting at about 62 per cent capacity, which the council advises places them at “preparing for drought level”. It’s the first time since August 2021 that the dams have gone below 70 per cent and the council is encouraging consumers to reduce water use, although Watercare has advised that water restrictions are unlikely to occur.
Water reduction tips: Showering and doing the laundry take the most water. Limit showers to four minutes or less. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving. Choose appliances with a good water rating – check the label. Front-loading washing machines and dual-flush toilets are more efficient. Only run your washing machine or dishwasher when they’re full. Use a bucket to catch water while the shower warms up. You can use the water on your garden. Check for leaks. Small drips, e.g. from the toilet cistern, can waste thousands of litres. When hand-washing dishes, fill the sink rather than rinsing and washing the dishes under a running tap. Use a bucket of soapy water to clean windows or the car. Only use the hose for a quick spray to finish. Sweep your paths and driveway rather than hosing.
Firewise tips: Avoid any outdoor activity that could cause a spark, including mowing, welding or driving a car through long grass. • Only use established barbecues at parks and beach areas to cook food. • If you see smoke that could be a threat, dial 111. Visit checkitsalright.nz for updates to the fire season (currently prohibited, a total fire ban).
