Council Keeping Tabs On Water Use

Wednesday, 19 February 2020, 4:48 pm
Article: Aaron van Delden - Local Democracy Reporter

Gisborne’s water use has dropped in line with cooler temperatures in the past week.
The district council introduced a total sprinkler ban on Wednesday, with demand for water exceeding the 22.2 million litres a day supplied by Waingake water treatment plant.

Last week, water use dropped from a peak of 25.2m litres in the 24 hours to 8am on Tuesday to 19.4m litres by 8am on Sunday.
But with warmer weather expected this week, the council would be keeping a close eye on demand, drinking water team leader Judith Robertson said.

The sprinkler ban would be reviewed later this week, taking into account demand, dam levels and the long-range forecast, Ms Robertson said.
The next level of restriction – a total outdoor water ban for households – also restricts outdoor water use for businesses.

Ms Robertson said people were urged to conserve water and adhere to the sprinkler ban.
Gisborne has a back-up supply in the Waipaoa River water treatment plant, which is producing 8.6m litres of drinking water a day.

However, the river is flowing at a low level – 1.7 cubic metres per second – and the plant will be shut down if it drops below 1.3 cubic metres per second.

Some water-saving tips
- Avoid watering the garden during the heat of the day.
- Put a bucket in the shower to catch water and use it for plants.
- Load up the washing machine and dishwasher – make sure every load is full.
- Repair leaky taps, hoses or fittings.
- Turn off the tap while cleaning your teeth or shaving.
- A three-minute shower uses less than half the water needed for a bath.
More tips can be found on the council’s website: www.gdc.govt.nz

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