Latest figures show that the drought in the Malborough region has tightened its grip.
A climate scientist with the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Jim Salinger, says it is possible that the drought could continue until the spring.
NIWA says the drought in Marlborough is already the worst in 100 years and heavy rain may now make matters worse.
Salinger says the ground is now so dry it may not be able to absorb heavy rainfall and the top soil would simply wash away.
He says farmers need an extended period of gentle rain, but this is unlikely in the next few months.
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