The first water restrictions of the summer are in place.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research is forecasting a drier than normal summer after a flush spring due to plenty of rain.
In parts of Otago, dry conditions have already set in.
Clutha District Council has announced water restrictions covering the district, with watering and sprinkers to be used only between 8pm and 8am.
Exemptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis to commercial properties and for irrigation depending on the level of restrictions in place, the extent of the dry period and the time of the year.
