Water restriction warnings for Kawakawa and Hokianga

With NIWA forecasting that autumn drought conditions are likely to continue in coming weeks, Level 3 water restrictions are being applied to Kawakawa and Moerewa from next Monday (31 March).

Level 3 restrictions ban the use of hoses, outdoor sprinklers and irrigation systems and are already in place for South Hokianga water supplies at Ōpononi-Ōmāpere and Ōmanaia-Rāwene.

Northland was classified by the government as being in a drought on 7 March 2025. Streams and rivers that supply towns across the Far North are below normal levels with flows continuing to decrease.

The Tirohanga Stream which feeds bores that supply water to Kawakawa and Moerewa is the only water source for those towns. While some rainfall is predicted next week, it is not expected to be enough to provide relief. Significant rainfall over several days will be required to reverse declining river flows.

The situation in the Hokianga is also worsening. Despite Level 3 water restrictions being applied since 13 January, high demand has continued despite the holiday season coming to an end and students returning to school. Latest data has revealed spikes in overnight and weekend water use in Ōpononi. This elevated water use is putting both Ōpononi and Ōmāpere – which share the same water supply – at risk of being moved to Level 4 water restrictions. Level 4 is the highest restriction level and limits customers to essential water use only for cooking, drinking and washing.

Investigations are underway to determine the source of the excessive water use which is preventing storage reservoirs from being replenished overnight, ready for the next day’s water consumption. A leak has been ruled out as a source of the excessive use. Customers should not be filling pools or using water excessively while Level 3 water restrictions are applied.

The Hokianga towns of Ōmanaia and Rāwene have also had Level 3 water restrictions in place since 13 January. Their shared water treatment plant continues to operate at near capacity. Flow levels in the Petaka Stream, which supplies these towns, continues to decrease due to lack of rain in western areas.

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.

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.

All Far North residents and visitors are asked to continue to be mindful of their water use and to report any water leaks by calling 0800 920 029.

Main photo - the Tirohanga Stream, the only water source for Kawakawa and Moerewa, is currently at a low flow level.