Risk of droughts and rising sea levels as Auckland temperatures set to rise over next 100 years - report

A report released by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) today warns that average temperatures in the Auckland region will continue to climb over the next 100 years.

The report states that if global emissions continue on the current path the number of days with temperatures over 25 degrees could quadruple with average temperatures increasing by up to 3.75 degrees by 2110.

Alarmingly the report also says this will lead to an increased risk of drought, extreme rainfall and rising sea levels.

NIWA warns that increasing ocean temperatures are leading to a decrease in ocean PH levels, meaning the waters are turning more acidic.

The climate projections were commissioned by the Auckland Council, Auckland Transport, Watercare and Panuku Development Auckland in a bid to increase the understanding of risks, vulnerabilities and opportunities in the Auckland region.

"Better information about how Auckland’s climate is changing will help Auckland make more effective decisions about our future," Auckland Council's Chief Sustainability Officer John Mauro said.

"This means building improved resilience with every decision we make, like how we provide community services, when and where we develop our infrastructure, and how and when we make investments to generate better value for Aucklanders."

The report comes as the Government announced today that it's closely monitoring the recent dry weather across the country and how it could affect farmers and growers.

Minister of Agriculture Damien O'Connor said in a statement: "Farmers and growers in many of our regions are experiencing lower than normal soil moisture levels for this time of year.

"Local knowledge is essential, and our Ministry of Primary Industry (MPI) analysts in each area work with their local farmers and groups to keep an eye on how climate conditions around the country are affecting rural communities. "

NIWA meteorologist Chris Brandolino says below normal rainfall is expected for most of New Zealand for at least the next 10 days with perhaps only localised exceptions.