Rāwene residents urged to conserve water after mains break

A mains break at the intersection of Parnell St and Mariner St happened because a section of Parnell St slumped. Photo / Far North District Council

A “major” water mains break has seen a Far North town’s reservoir storage levels plummet, triggering a 24-hour alert to conserve water.

Residents and businesses in Rāwene are being asked to immediately reduce water consumption while contractors undertake repairs.

The break was caused by a section of Parnell St slumping at the intersection with Mariner St, Far North District Council said.

The break happened this morning and resulted in storage levels in the Rāwene reservoir dropping to less than 15%.

“All customers connected to the council’s Ōmanaia–Rāwene water supply are now being asked to reduce consumption immediately or risk the town’s reservoir and taps running dry.”

Contractors were isolating the mains break, which would cut water supply to some residents for at least four hours.

A water tanker should have arrived at 1.30pm at Russell Esplanade to provide free, treated water to those who needed it.

“It will remain in place until 6pm or when water supplies are restored. Please bring your own clean containers to be filled,” the council said.

A text alert would be sent to all mobile phones within the Ōmanaia-Rāwene water supply area detailing the supply situation.

“Customers are being asked to conserve water for at least 24 hours while the reservoir is recharged.”

The Hokianga Health hospital has not been affected.

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.