The drought in the lower North Island is getting worse and the local regional council is saying every drop of water counts.
The Waikato region has been a drought zone for nearly two months and six weeks ago the region from Ruapehu to Manawatu also became an official drought area.
Much needed rain is forecast for the weekend but Horizons Regional Council fears the tough times are just the first of many. The region covers Tararua, Ruapehu, Palmerston North, Manawatu and Wanganui.
Council chairman Garrick Murfitt says it is becoming increasingly tough for many in the area's primary sectors. He says pastures and soils have become even dryer and river levels are the lowest in living memory.
He is urging people to use every drop of water wisely.
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