Waipa District Council is encouraged by the response from many residents in Te Awamutu, Kihikihi and Pirongia, to the water restrictions put in place.
During the first week of the sprinkler ban, a drop in usage did occur, but Council Engineering Manager John Kerr says this must continue.
“We would like to thank all those residents who have played a part in reducing water usage so far. These efforts have contributed significantly to the levels of water in our reservoirs. However there is still a lot of dry weather to come, and a few downpours wont get us to where we need to be, so these savings, and then some, have to continue for a bit longer.”
If the required water savings can be achieved, then Mr Kerr is confident that all community supplies will be well positioned for the remainder of the summer.
Council has to look after public amenity areas and use water to ensure turf and gardens do not die, but wherever possible, non-drinking water sources are being used. Although major water users in Te Awamutu don’t have sprinklers, they are also assisting with water conservation.
“Industrial and major users have been most helpful, and have achieved good savings in water usage.”
The sprinkler ban will be in place until the end of February, and may continue into March.
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