The drought is delighting those in the olive industry who say it has resulted in excellent fruit quality and a high oil content.
Harvesting of olives is under way on most groves around New Zealand and processing plants are in full swing.
The industry's executive officer, Lesley Wilson, says the dry weather has been great for this year's crop and oil levels.
A drop in fruit quantity in the north has been compensated for by a rise in oil levels.
Ms Wilson says oil levels from this year's crop are looking to be similar to last season.
The quantity of oil produced last year was about 220,000 litres.
