As near-drought conditions persist across much of the South Island, the Otago Regional Council (ORC) is cautioning Otago residents in both urban and rural areas to conserve water in the weeks ahead.

ORC science manager Tom Dyer said NIWA’s 35-day weather outlook suggests a continuation of recent similar conditions – more unsettled weather with some occasional rain - but with the potential for continued moisture-sapping hot dry windy spells in between.

“Many of our rivers are bouncing in and out of low flow conditions this summer due to the variable weather conditions,” Tom said.

While the NIWA forecast does not indicate an escalation in drought severity, it suggests continued dry conditions overall, with the effects most keenly felt in Central Otago and North Otago.

“We acknowledge that for some communities this will be a difficult time, as people will be starting to feel the effects of the dry weather, leading into autumn,” Tom said.

He said water consent holders and catchment groups are doing a good job, which has so far prevented the need for ORC to consider introducing water shortage directions.

For the most part, water users’ compliance with the rules has been “outstanding” so far this year.

However, with no dry conditions likely to last, it’s a good idea to brush up on water conservation practices, he said.

Tips include:

• Check for leaks around stock water and irrigation infrastructure
• Irrigate at times when the water is more likely to be absorbed
• Apply irrigation so that it is retained in the pasture or crop root zone - for more tips, check this Irrigation NZ factsheet
• If you are unsure if your irrigator is applying the right amount of water, ORC catchment advisors can help you carry out a bucket test ([email protected])
• Minimise water use on gardens and lawns
• Don’t leave water running unnecessarily
• Avoid washing vehicles and boats

ORC staff are still monitoring rivers and consented takes to ensure the waterways are protected for all, Tom said.

Queenstown Lakes District Council has level-one water use restrictions in place for Hāwea and Luggate.

Level one restrictions require residents and visitors to keep hand-held hosing to a minimum, and to only use irrigation sprinklers between midnight and 6am.

PHOTO: Wānaka App