Marlborough dries up as more irrigation bans imposed

Irrigation in South Canterbury had made a big difference but the water levels were running low and a "crunch point" was looming for the Opuha Dam. Photo / NZME.

Conditions are getting increasingly drier in Marlborough and nine of the province's 16 consent areas have had their right to irrigate suspended, Federated Farmers said.

Blenheim has had its lowest rainfall in 85 years over the July 2014 - January 2015 period, receiving just 35 per cent of the long term average rainfall of 381mm.

Other areas of Marlborough are also suffering significantly lower rainfall, including Avon Valley, which has received only 245mm of rainfall - 53 per cent of the long term average.

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The Marlborough branch of Federated Farmers has established a local drought committee to keep water users up to date.

The group, led by provincial president, Greg Harris, includes the Rural Support Trust, Ministry for Primary Industries, Beef & Lamb, Dairy NZ and the Marlborough District Council.

The Onamalutu Valley - Northbank fire last week has already burnt around 620ha, including forest, tree lots, some agricultural land and small holdings, with a large number of rural residents affected.

While the fire is largely under control, helicopters and ground crews are still monitoring the situation, and continue to work within the fire area.

Federated Farmers and the Rural Support Trust are providing support to those farmers affected.