Despite a wet start to the new year, Aucklanders are in for a dry summer, according to NIWA.
"NIWA advises we are in the middle of an El Niño weather cycle, with a high [45 percent] chance that January to March 2016 rainfall will be below normal for the north of the North Island," says Civil Defence and Emergency Management director John Dragicevich.
Auckland Council is urging homeowners with water tanks to conserve water in preparation, and not "get complacent just because the rain has been plentiful so far".
"Check your water tank frequently to ensure you can bring in water before your tank runs dry."
Mr Dragicevich says the homes at greatest risk include holiday homes with visitors who tend to be less aware of the need to conserve water.
"Residents in homes that have run out of water often resort to council facilities for their ablutions and cleaning, putting additional stress on these facilities."
Areas with rainwater tanks include the Hauraki Gulf islands, including Waiheke, Great Barrier and Kawau. Rural areas of Auckland such as Rodney and Franklin are also asked to conserve water this summer.
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