Water savings: How are we doing?
Aucklanders have managed to save millions of litres of water but the region’s water supplier wants users to sustain their effort.
Watercare wants householders to cut water use by 20 litres, or oneeighth of the average of 160 litres per person per day, until sediment in the waterlogged Hunua Ranges drops enough to stop clogging the water treatment plants.
Chief executive Raveen Jaduram commended Aucklanders for their efforts but said the city is not out of the woods yet.
“It’s really inspiring to see the community responding so well to our call for reduced water use,” Jaduram said. “You’re doing a fantastic job. “Our Save 20 target is easily achievable: 20 litres less water per person per day. To put it in perspective, it’s only a few minutes less in the shower and turning off the tap when brushing teeth.”
Watercare’s treatment plants are producing enough water to meet demand and the quality of the water has not been compromised. It’s safe to drink straight from the tap.
However, if the demand for water goes up substantially, the company may be forced to release partially treated water into the region’s supply.
In such a situation, a boil water notice would be issued.
The Save 20 message applies to everyone connected to Auckland’s metropolitan water supply network, including those living as far south as Pukekohe and as far north as Waiwera.