Low rainfall in Central Otago in the past month is a ''blessing in disguise'', hydrologist Dave Stewart says.
Niwa's April climate summary showed many places in Central Otago experienced less than half their normal rainfall for the month and as a result had significant soil moisture deficits.
Wanaka recorded only 12mm of rain, 26% of its normal rainfall, while Ranfurly received 21mm, 55% of its normal rainfall.
Niwa principal scientist Dr Andrew Tait said lower-than-usual pressures over New Zealand meant more northwesterly winds affected the country, resulting in a very warm month and a cloudy month for the eastern South Island.
Temperatures were lower in Otago despite the warmer-than-usual month for most areas.
Ranfurly recorded the lowest national minimum temperature for the month, minus 5.9degC, on April 10 (its third-lowest), while Balclutha recorded its lowest minimum for the month since its records began of minus 4.1degC and Dunedin airport had its fourth-equal lowest minimum of minus 4.5degC, also on the 10th.
As temperatures were too low for grass growth, the region was better off without rain for the next few months as it meant less mud and run-off for farmers to deal with, Mr Stewart said.
As long as rain came in August in time to help promote spring growth, farmers would be happy, he said.
April in Central
• Tara Hills (near Omarama): 9mm rain, 25% of normal for April. Soil moisture deficit 129mm (significant deficit).
• Wanaka Airport: 12mm rain, 26% of normal for April. Soil moisture deficit 126mm (significant deficit).
• Ranfurly: 21mm rain, 55% of normal for April. Soil moisture deficit 117mm (significant deficit).
• Lauder: 14mm rain, 37% of normal for April. Soil moisture deficit 127mm (significant deficit).
*Source: Niwa
