Upper Mangatawhiri Dam, Hunua ranges 7 Oct 2020 Photo: supplied
As the weather warms up, what is the outlook for parts of the country hit by drought last summer?
Despite water restrictions imposed in May, Auckland water storage dams are only at 67 per cent - still 20 per cent below historic levels.
From next Monday water these will be slightly eased for commercial water users, but the ban on garden hoses, home and car washing will continue until at least December when the council will review dam levels and consider summer weather forecasts.
Niwa's latest monthly climate summary shows Northland and Auckland got less than half of their normal September rainfall.
Kathryn talks with Niwa Principal Forecasting Scientist Chris Brandolino and Marlon Bridge, acting Chief Executive of Auckland's Watercare, Marlon Bridge.
