Water shortages may be more common this summer, with an El Nino weather pattern

The climate event was declared earlier in the year, bringing strong winds, and warm, dry days with it.

Gisborne District Principal Scientist Murry Cave says it will mean farmers and growers will need to use irrigation systems more.

He says they are going to consider asking residents to reduce water use as supply is already under stress post-cyclone.

Cave says there is woody debris on the beaches, which were going to be burnt, but that is now more risky with strong winds and a warm, dry climate.