Sign of the times for water conservation

Retailers around the Far North are helping the council to remind residents and visitors about water conservation with a drier than usual summer predicted.

Far North District Council signs are again being displayed outside shops, service stations, and food outlets this summer where council water supplies are provided. The signs display a water glass graphic and list the four possible water restriction levels along with measures to reduce water consumption. A full glass means we’re okay. An empty glass means we need to conserve water immediately.

Businesses supporting their communities and helping to spread the water conservation message are:

• Kaitāia Mobil and the Te Ahu isite in Kaitāia
• Kaikohe New World, Kaikohe Mobil
• Hokianga Takeaways, and Café & Gallery No1 Parnell in Rāwene
• Four Square Paihia, and Waitangi Countdown
• The Warehouse at Waipapa, Kerikeri New World, and Kerikeri Countdown
• Moerewa BP, and Kawakawa Four Square.

Currently, there are no water restrictions required in the Far North and Level 1 signs are on display.

Level 1 means there are no restrictions but advise residents and visitors to use water sensibly. Level 2 restrictions mean no sprinklers; Level 3 restrictions ban the use of hoses and sprinklers; and Level 4 restrictions means there is essential water use only i.e. cooking, cleaning, and washing.

NIWA Taihoro Nukurangi (National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research) has confirmed that while the chance of drought cannot be ruled out this summer, high groundwater levels, as well as current soil moisture levels, put the district in a good position. Dry conditions are predicted but these are more likely to be into the new year and will depend on weather patterns over the next few weeks.

For further information about council water supplies, connecting to council networks, buying bulk water, and water restrictions, visit our website or visit Be Waterwise.

If you see or suspect a water leak anywhere in the district, please report it immediately by calling 0800 920 029.  

Photo: Big shout-out to Guy Hoffman, manager of Paihia Four Square, who is one of 13 retailers getting our water-wise message out to the public.