Kaikohe urged to conserve water as heavy rain causes challenges

Residents in Kaikohe are being asked to urgently conserve water during the next 48 hours as the Taraire Hills Water Treatment Plant faces operational challenges following heavy rainfall.

Households and businesses across Kaikohe should limit water use to essential needs only.

The river supplying the plant has become heavily silted over the past two days, causing debris to clog the intake and filtration systems. Staff are actively working to clear the blocked intake and filters to safely restart the treatment plant. The process is complex due to the volume of debris and ongoing impacts from the weather conditions.

The town’s reservoir levels have dropped to below 50 per cent capacity, significantly lower than the typical daytime range of 70 to 90 per cent. This reduction in supply is driving the need for residents to conserve water.

Taking shorter showers, deferring clothes and dish washing, and flushing only when necessary are effective ways to reduce water consumption. This will help ensure there is enough supply for drinking, hygiene, and emergency services while repairs are underway.

Main image – from Kaikohe Pump Intake at 3.30pm, Thursday 26 March.