6 December 2000

Three Kings Water Supply – Community Groups To Be Consulted Again

Extensive scientific studies of the suitability of the Three Kings water source as a drinking water supply indicate that the water is safe to drink.

The analyses of sustainability, water quality, effects of the closed landfill on the underground water source, and options for use of the supply for other than drinking water have been completed by specialists on behalf of Auckland City and Metrowater.

City Works Committee Chair Doug Astley says the findings are that the Three Kings water supply is suitable for public consumption and the water complies with Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand as certified by the Medical Officer of Health.

“Nearly a year’s work has gone into these additional independent assessments which have been carried out because of community concerns about the quality of the water,” he said. “I am pleased to say the results are very encouraging and the tests show the Three Kings supply is satisfactory as a public water source.

“We will now go back out to the community with the results and seek input from iwi and other interested groups before making a final decision about use of the water. People will have until the end of February to comment on the reports and we expect to make a decision in March next year.”

Cr Astley says some changes to proposed management and monitoring plans have been recommended. These changes will be implemented by Metrowater if the source is introduced to Auckland’s drinking water supply.
MORE
Page two

The Three Kings water supply was identified as a valuable water source when
investigations were carried out on underground aquifers to supplement to the city’s water supply following water shortages in the mid 90’s.

Reports show it can produce a continuous supply of good quality drinking water in the future, ranging from an initial 5000 cu.m/day for up to six years and about 2300cu.m/day thereafter.

ENDS

For further information please contact:
Cr Doug Astley, telephone 620 4923 or 025 2970 494

© Scoop Media