Water restrictions increased for Kaikohe
The impact of drier than usual weather over winter and spring is being felt in Kaikohe as the town’s groundwater supply under Monument Hill continues to fall to concerning levels.
The impact of drier than usual weather over winter and spring is being felt in Kaikohe as the town’s groundwater supply under Monument Hill continues to fall to concerning levels.
In response, the Far North District Council is introducing Level 3 water restrictions for households and businesses connected to its Kaikohe water supply from 21 November. This means it will be illegal to use garden hoses, sprinklers or any irrigation devices. Water blasting and filling swimming pools from the mains supply will also be banned.
The Council is applying the extra water conservation measures for Kaikohe to protect the town’s aquifer and ensure continuity of water supply going into the summer season.
General Manager – Infrastructure and Asset Management, Andy Finch says the groundwater supply did not recharge over winter to levels normally expected for this time of year.
“Water levels at Monument Hill are already close to our consented limit. We’d expect the level to be much higher at this time of year. This week, readings have shown groundwater levels dropping with summer just around the corner and no significant rain forecast over the long term.”
Level 2 restrictions are already in place for Kaikohe and this has helped to preserve groundwater supplies. Mr Finch says the Council is undertaking a leak detection programme for major water users connected to the Kaikohe supply. The Council has also directed bulk water carriers supplying homes and businesses not connected to the town supply to take water from an alternative source.
Go to the Be Waterwise (Whakanuia to whakaaro ki te wai) website bewaterwise.org.nz for tips on how to save water and for more information about current Far North water restrictions. Phone 0800 920 029 to tell the Council about water leaks or breaches to water restrictions.
The Council can grant exemptions to water restrictions in exceptional circumstances. Applicants must demonstrate significant hardship and have no practical alternative water source. Visit the water section of our website for more details and to apply for an exemption.