Dryness Follows Me.

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Peacock Moth. Opua, New Zealand ©Carol Forsyth

I thought I had left the dryness of Ruakaka behind me.   Apparently not. 
I am now living through a drought.
Geography: Opua is a locality in the Bay of Islands, in the sub-tropical Northland region of NZ.  It is notable as the first port of overseas yachts arriving in the country after crossing the Pacific Ocean.
During the summer season - now - a drought tends to start slowly, often without warning, and can last for significant periods of time and cover large areas.    
This is the sixth drought declared in Northland since 2009. 
For our many seasonal & maritime visitors, a drought has little or no effect apart from restrictions on washing down vehicles or vessels.
My water situation is good although I am mindful of using it wisely.    
The garden impersonates hay - dry stalks and brown seed heads.
The potatoes also deciding they can survive no longer. 
A young tamarillo and a few strawberry plants barely survive on water bucketed over.
For the quails, soaked wild bird seeds are available in a low saucer under the lemon tree.
Birds - large & small - constantly drink & wash in the bird bath on the lawn.
The ground is so dry that hungry kiwi are unable to poke their beaks down to their food.  
At least the surrounding bush provides shade and a refuge for native wildlife. 
Being here in Opua makes me understand how minor my issues are.   
I am humbled by news of farmers culling stock and town water supplies running out.  
My garden problems are insignificant compared to the reality of the world around me and the fact that farmers and growers may still be affected by this drought this time next year. 
Thank you ANZ Bank for easing loan repayments for farmers suffering from the drought.
No rain is predicted for at least the next ten days.

Should we prepare for a future where water is even more important than it is today?

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Text and Photography © Carol Forsyth 2020



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