The Nelson City Council is introducing water restrictions from tomorrow, due to the lack of significant rainfall and dropping water levels at the Maitai Dam.
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The stage one restrictions - which will apply to all urban areas, will allow odd numbered houses to use sprinklers on odd days only and vice versa for even numbered houses.
A council spokesperson said the restrictions applied to the use of sprinklers on gardens, lawns and orchards
Public parks and gardens are not affected by the restrictions.
The council said a long, dry summer has been forecast and water restrictions were needed now to ensure long-term water supply for essential use.
Several other regions around New Zealand are also struggling with water issues.
Water restrictions have already been introduced in Tauranga and the Far North.
In Wellington, authorities have been forced to dip into its storage lakes two months earlier than usual, while Southland is facing its driest year on record.