Level 2 water restrictions remain for Ōmanaia-Rāwene
Level 2 restrictions on the use of outdoor sprinklers and irrigation systems will continue for Ōmanaia and Rāwene residents and businesses.
Level 2 restrictions on the use of outdoor sprinklers and irrigation systems will continue for Ōmanaia and Rāwene residents and businesses.
The restrictions were applied two weeks ago in an effort to reduce water consumption and to help preserve Petaka Stream, the only raw water source supplying the south Hokianga communities.
Production figures from the water treatment plant show that summer demand for water in Ōmanaia and Rāwene remains high but has plateaued. The treatment plant is keeping pace with consumption and is fully recharging storage reservoirs overnight.
The successful identification and repair of two significant leaks in the Ōmanaia-Rāwene water network has helped to improve the situation. Those repairs were part of an ongoing leak detection programme being applied to all eight council water supplies.
After a review of flow levels in Petaka Stream and water consumption trends, the council’s Water Shortage Management Committee last week decided to continue restrictions on sprinklers and irrigation systems for Ōmanaia and Rāwene. This decision reflected predictions that dry and hot conditions are likely to continue in coming weeks.
There are no plans to introduce water restrictions to other water supplies despite warmer temperatures and heightened demand. Water treatment plants supplying Kerikeri and Paihia are nearing production capacity with both plants operating close to 24 hours per day. However, it is anticipated that water demand in both towns will begin to fall after Waitangi Day and visitor numbers begin to reduce.
The council’s Water Shortage Management Committee will continue to monitor all council water supplies and the need for water restrictions. It will meet again in two weeks.
The council is urging all households and businesses connected to council supplies, as well as those on tank supplies, to conserve water over the coming weeks and months as drier weather is predicted. Please report all suspected water leaks immediately to council by calling 0800 920 029.