The community is pulling together to get through the region’s impending drought by not taking more than their share of water as river levels continue to drop.

Horizons Regional Council has had 100 per cent compliance for water takes over the last month, despite restrictions in many areas across the region.

Chief executive Michael McCartney said the hard work of water users, including the rural sector, industry and local authorities, to comply in such difficult conditions should be congratulated.

To help water users manage their water supply, Horizons makes current information on water levels available on its website. Consent holders can see details about their individual water take to see how much water they can use each day.

A helpful tool that will be needed over the coming weeks as more restrictions on water use will be put in place, putting more pressure on irrigators and industry that rely heavily on water for their livelihood.

“The small streams in the Tararua district are nearly all on restriction and most other rivers are receding to that point,’’ Mr McCartney says.

In anticipation of this, the council is looking at how they can help water users through the coming weeks.

“Water shortage is our top priority and I will be seeking advice from the Chairman on how best to prioritise water use over the coming weeks.

“We will be looking at where we might need to have to make compromises, while ensuring consistency in our decision-making during this time of significant stress faced by our community.’’

ENDS

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