Save water as drought declared
Last week the Tararua District was officially declared in drought —“a medium-scale adverse event” — and is still experiencing severe water shortages across the district.
To keep up with the latest water developments or for water conservation tips visit the Tararua District Council website at www.tararuadc.govt.nz/water or follow them on Facebook.
■ Dannevirke
Water conservation efforts in Dannevirke have meant the situation is less critical than it has been, however this does not mean the public can ease off saving water.
The Dannevirke reservoir got as low as 5 per cent at its lowest point but has increased to around 21 per cent.
This roughly equates to six days use if Council is unable to take water from the Tamaki River for any reason.
If the emergency take from the Tamaki River continues, and that use remains stable, Council predicts that Dannevirke can avoid an increase in restrictions to ‘essential use only’ (drinking, cooking and personal hygiene only) in Dannevirke.
Despite this, Council is continuing the works that will enable them to bring water via rail to Dannevirke as a contingency. With little significant rain forecast it is important contingencies continue to be developed.
■ Woodville
The focus of the response is now turning to Woodville, where reservoir volumes are reaching critical levels. Council has been unable to draw much water from the Mangapapa Stream for some time, which means Woodville has been largely using water from the reservoir and it is vital for water conservation efforts to continue.
With little significant rain forecast that would allow Council to resume taking water from the Mangapapa Stream, Council considers it prudent to plan for water transported by rail to also be available to Woodville if required.
■ Norsewood
The Norsewood community has been required to reduce the town’s water use to 50m3 daily.
The use fluctuated last week with a low of 59Mm3 used on Thursday 5 March and a high of 77m3 used on Saturday 7 March.
It is essential that Norsewood residents continue to prioritise water conservation to avoid the need for further restrictions.
■ Rural communities
Water deliveries to rural households are continuing and Council is confident the most urgent needs have been met for those who have registered.
Rural residents are reminded by Council to ensure water collection containers are thoroughly cleaned and water from untreated sources is boiled before use.
Rural residents can continue to register household water shortages through the Council website: www.tararuadc.govt. nz/ruralwater.
For all other drought related matters, rural residents are encouraged to contact Rural Support Trust Tararua Coordinator Jane Tylee on 027 367 3672 or visit the Ministry for Primary Industries website where they have added information and advice for dealing with drought conditions:
www.mpi.govt.nz/protectionand-response/responding/ adverse-events/dealing-withdrought-conditions/