Council sounds water warning
The continuous summer rainfall has kept Matamata looking green and luscious but Matamata- Piako District Council is encouraging residents to start conserving water now to reduce the likelihood of water restrictions later this season.
So while it is still OK to occasionally use the sprinkler on the lawn, take a bath instead of a shower and flush the toilet on full, people need to be aware of how much water they are using and how to use it sparingly.
Matamata Piako District Council communications officer Stephanie Slattery said it is good that the council has not had to put any water restrictions on yet because most years, the restrictions run right throughout the summer.
‘‘[ In 2010- 11] we had water restrictions (sprinkler ban) in place from midDecember through to early March and we also had fire restrictions in place due to the dry and hot weather.’’
Ms Slattery said to prevent such extensive restrictions being imposed again this year, there are number of simple ways that people can reserve water appropriately.
Water your gardens in the evening so the water is adsorbed overnight and not evaporated during the heat of the day.
Do not leave hoses ning unattended.
Use the flush option on the toilet if it has one – a full flush uses around 15 litres of water. To reduce the amount of water used by a standard toilet cistern, place a milk bottle of water
run- or brick in the cistern.
For washing hands only turn on the tap halfway. You’ll still get enough water to do the job and won’t waste as much.
Turn off the tap when you’re not using it.
Instead of running the water to rinse clothes or dishes, fill the tub or a bucket part way and use the water in that.
Use the shower instead of the bath – the average bath uses 180 litres of water but a shower only uses between 40 and 100 litres. Shorter showers save more water.
Run appliances such as your dishwasher and washing machine on the short cycle when possible.
Wash your car using a bucket and sponge, hosing only for a quick final rinse. By washing the car on the lawn, your grass gets some water as well.
Regularly check taps, pipes and hoses for leaks as a continuously dripping tap can waste around 600 litres per day.
Remember to keep an eye on mpdc.govt.nz to find out about the water situation and whether there are any restrictions put in place next month.