February 2026
As summer came to an end, February kept the region in the continued run of wetter than average conditions seen so
far this year. By the month’s end, regional rainfall totals sat at 124% of the long term average, with Southern Hawke’s
Bay (161%), Northern Hawke’s Bay (144%), and Waikaremoana (140%) all recording well above normal rainfall totals.
River flows across most sites followed this pattern, with some northern and southern catchments registering
particularly high flows. Soil moisture levels also remained above median levels across the region, reflecting the
sustained wet conditions of the past two months. Groundwater levels across the region were assessed as “Normal” for
February, with both the Ruataniwha Plains and Heretaunga Plains recording marked improvement and continuing their
upward trajectory.
Temperatures were near normal across the region, with maximum temperatures sitting 0.3°C above normal and
minimum temperatures 0.41°C above normal. The wet conditions also influenced recreational water quality, with
several sites—particularly central locations—exceeding guideline thresholds throughout the month. Despite this, many
coastal beaches maintained good conditions even with the unsettled weather. Air quality remained excellent
throughout February, with no PM₁₀ exceedances recorded in any of the airsheds.
Nithin Bala Murali
Climate Scientisthttp://Click Here
To read the full environment report see below
Monthly Environmental Report February 2026
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