Water restrictions have been extended to Northland's east coast communities and a total fire ban remains in place despite rain sprinkling parts of the region.
Coastal communities have been told to conserve water because there's a risk sea water could contaminate drying bores, streams, rivers and lakes - making the water undrinkable.
Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor is visiting the drought stricken region tomorrow, where farmers and households are desperate for a reprieve.
Amy Wilson reports.
