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Kaipara residents are being urged to prepare early for a likely dry summer, with El Niño conditions expected to bring an increased chance of warmer temperatures, prolonged dry spells and pressure on water supplies.
Kaipara District Council said the conditions could lead to drier soils and an increased risk of drought later in the season, while putting greater pressure on both town water supplies and households reliant on water tanks.
Earth Sciences New Zealand has confirmed El Niño conditions have developed in the tropical Pacific and are expected to influence New Zealand’s weather over summer.
El Niño is a natural climate pattern associated with changing ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific and typically occurs every few years.
In New Zealand, it often brings stronger westerly winds and can increase the likelihood of warmer summer temperatures, longer dry spells and lower rainfall, putting greater pressure on water supplies.
El Niño does not guarantee a dry summer, but it does make these conditions more likely.
For Kaipara, that can mean drier soils, an increased risk of drought conditions later in the season, and higher demand for water supplies.
“Water is one of our most valuable resources, particularly during summer when demand increases from residents, visitors and businesses,” Kaipara District Council said.
“A long period of hot, dry weather can reduce river flows and put pressure on water sources for our council networks.”
It said residents on town supply could face water restrictions if supply could not keep up with demand.
Those reliant on tank water were also being urged to monitor levels and order water early, with suppliers likely to face increased demand and longer delivery times during dry periods.
Council said recent investment had strengthened Kaipara’s water network and improved its ability to cope with periods of higher demand.
Projects include replacing ageing water mains in Dargaville and Maungatūroto, installing additional pumps and investigating new water sources as part of longer-term efforts to improve water security.
“While infrastructure upgrades help, water conservation remains an important part of making sure communities have reliable water supply through dry periods.”
The council is urging residents on tank water to monitor levels and plan ahead, with demand for water deliveries expected to increase during dry periods.
Residents are also encouraged to familiarise themselves with water restriction levels and conserve water where possible to reduce pressure on supplies.
The council will continue monitoring conditions over summer and provide updates if restrictions or additional conservation measures are needed. Farmers can also access El Niño preparation guidance from the Ministry for Primary Industries, while seasonal outlooks and drought forecasts are available from Earth Sciences New Zealand.
