Continuing hot, dry weather conditions has forced Waipa District Council to introduce a district-wide ban on all sprinklers and automated watering systems.
The ban takes effect immediately.
The Maungauika Stream, which provides water to Te Awamutu is running low, due to the lack of rainfall, while in Kihikihi, the pumps are working overtime to try and meet demand. Council’s Engineering Manager, John Kerr, says the unusually long dry spell has plant capacity working at its limit.
“We are running at full capacity all of the time, which means our margin for emergencies has been significantly reduced. As the dry spell is forecasted to continue, we have to introduce these restrictions on use, and ask that everyone plays their part in decreasing the demand on our water supplies.”
Rural residents are also asked to reduce their water usage.
“The town supply provides water to some rural households, via tanker, in times of dry summer weather. However, it may become necessary for Council to limit the supply of water to these tankers if demand does not ease.”
Water usage and weather conditions will be continually monitored, but the sprinkler and automated watering system bans will be in place until further notice.
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