Water supplies restored to Kāeo

Water is again flowing to residents and businesses in Kāeo this week after the council completed repairs to a privately-owned supply that was cut off in October.

Reticulated water was restored yesterday (23 December) to affected customers after the council completed repairs that included re-routing pipe work, replacing broken valves, cleaning raw water tanks, cleaning out a sand filter and replacing filter media.

While water is again flowing to 14 properties, the former Wai Care customers are being warned they still have to boil water for drinking, making ice, food preparation, oral hygiene and for pets.

Customers are also being advised that because pipes have sat idle for a long period, they should run their taps for several minutes before using their water to ensure pipes have cleared and the water is as clear as possible.

The council will continue to operate the supply in its current state until 31March 2026. In the meantime, it will work with Taumata Arowai and the community on identifying cost-effective and long-term options for the town’s water supply.

All former Wai Care customers have been contacted by the council and informed about resumption of supplies and the need to boil their water. The council will keep the connected properties updated on progress.