Water Restrictions Increase In Hamilton and Waikato

26 February 2013

For Immediate Release

A total ban on domestic sprinklers and irrigation systems and restrictions on outdoor water use for commercial properties will be introduced to Hamilton and Waikato District from tomorrow.

The increase in water restrictions to Water Alert Level 3, which does permit hand held watering at any time, follows rising water consumption figures and forecasts of ongoing hot dry weather for the city and district. Waipa District Council is already on Water Alert Level 3 restrictions. The summer of 2007/08 was the last time Hamilton had a total sprinkler ban.

Hamilton City Council City Waters Manager Tim Harty said the city’s water use had been climbing steadily over the past week, with 77 million litres used yesterday compared to a average usage this time of year of around 60 million litres.

“Our long hot summer continues and with it has come increasing demand for water. Thanks to those who have abided by the water restrictions to date, but we now need to ensure water is used in a sustainable manner.”

Water monitors will also be out and about in the city educating and ensuring adherence to restrictions.

Waikato District Council Water and Facilities General Manager Richard Bax said many areas of both Council’s business have already reduced water use.

“Between both Councils we have stopped fleet washing, building washing, pipe flushing, and turned off fountains. We have reduced the watering of flower beds and parks, and reduced the use of water by roading contractors.“

A range of methods are being used around the city and district to ensure residents are aware of the new restrictions, including posters, signs on arterial routes, electronic message boards, social media and newspaper and radio advertising. Direct contact is ongoing with major commercial and non-residential water users around essential and non-essential outdoor water use.

In Hamilton water monitors will also be out and about in the city educating and ensuring adherence to restrictions. To date Hamilton has received 94 complaints around improper water use. Those with concerns about improper water use can report this by:

· Phoning the Hamilton City Infrastructure Customer Service team on 838 6999

· Emailing Hamilton’s cityinfrastructure@hcc.govt.nz

· Filling in an online form on Hamilton’s website

· Phoning Waikato District Council on 0800 492 452

Waipa District Council also uses the same water alert level system as Hamilton and the Waikato district and is also at Alert Level 3 restrictions. The decision to move between alert levels is made based on a number of factors including consumption, weather forecasts, drought conditions, river levels and annual trend data.

Monitoring of daily water use and Waikato River and Lake Taupo levels is ongoing as part of reviewing water restriction levels.

More information on water consumption and alert levels is available on www.hamilton.co.nz/smartwater and www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz and www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/Community/Whats-happening/Smart-water-use .

ENDS

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