Water restrictions still needed after ‘atmospheric river’
An ‘atmospheric river’ that brought several days of heavy rain last week may have boosted river levels across the Far North, but the long-term effect on water sources is expected to be limited.
Several streams and rivers that supply towns with water across the Far North have been below normal levels for most of this summer. These sensitive waterways are subject to dramatic fluctuations after rainfall, meaning that increased flow levels recorded during a rain event usually fall away soon after.
As a result, water restrictions across the Far North will remain unchanged until water source levels stabilise in the coming months.
All Far North towns currently have water restrictions applied. Level 3 restrictions are in place at Ōpononi-Ōmāpere, Ōmanaia-Rāwene, and Kawakawa-Moerewa. Level 3 restrictions ban the use of hoses, outdoor sprinklers and irrigation systems. All other Far North water supplies - Kaikohe, Kaitāia, Ōkaihau, Kerikeri-Waipapa and Paihia-Ōpua-Waitangi - remain at Level 2 restrictions banning the use of outdoor sprinklers and irrigation systems.
Dubbed an ‘atmospheric river’ by Taihoro Nukurangi National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), recent rainfall was classed as a single weather event. Hydrology reports from Northland Regional Council show that rainfall in March this year was actually 22 per cent less than expected. The NIWA drought index also indicates that soil moisture levels remain low. The current weather pattern of long dry spells followed by heavy rain is expected to continue until near-normal conditions return over the next three months.
All water consumers are urged to remain mindful of their water use and to use water sensibly.
Northland was classified by the government as being in a drought on 7 March 2025. A drought classification by the government allows guidance and advice to be provided to farmers who may be experiencing difficulties, such as a lack of stock feed or other animal welfare issues. A drought declaration (which has not yet been made) is more serious and may require a Civil Defence response.
The council’s Water Shortage Management Committee continues to meet on a weekly basis to monitor water supplies, and council contractors have prioritised investigating and fixing water leaks reported across the district.
All Far North residents and visitors are asked to continue to report any water leaks by calling 0800 920 029.
Main image - a still from a NIWA video forecast on 1 April showing the predicted path of the atmospheric river.
Below - Tiaki ngā wai, Save water now. The message currently being displayed in Kaitāia where Level 2 water restrictions apply.
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