Auckland’s dams are about to dip under half-way again, with dry skies forecast through to next week.

They’re a long way from the historical average for this time of year of 76 per cent and inching uncomfortably close to the mid-40s level that last year saw the city impose restrictions on residential and commercial users.

Level one restrictions – no hose without a trigger nozzle – are in place, but otherwise the city’s water management company Watercare is relying on the goodwill of Aucklanders to keep usage under 430m litres a day.

$224m was sought last year to boost supply – and consent to take more from the Waikato River is being considered. Kathryn talks to new chief executive of Watercare, Jon Lamont.