Restrictions on water use have begun

South Hokianga residents will be subject to water restrictions.

South Hokianga residents are the first target of Far North District Council water restrictions, in a bid to delay or avoid expected serious shortages later in the summer.

General manager — infrastructure and asset management Andy Finch last week asked Opononi/Omapere and Rawene/Omanaia residents to stop using sprinklers and other than hand-held hoses from Friday, the first day of summer, and to be mindful of their overall water over the months to come.

"Introducing Level 2 water restrictions recognises the drought-sensitive nature of waterways that feed these water supply schemes," he said.

Level 2 restrictions meant it was illegal for residents connected to council water supplies to use automatic or unattended garden hoses, sprinklers and irrigation devices.

"We know that extra demands will be placed on Hokianga water supplies over summer. These restrictions aim to reduce water consumption so we can delay, or avoid altogether, the need for more stringent restrictions later," he said.

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The council was improving South Hokianga water supplies, however.

"In August the council committed to building a new $2.2 million water treatment plant for Rawene/Omanaia, which will include building extra raw water storage facilities to reduce demand on the Petaka Stream during dry weather," he added.

Residents can apply to be exempted from the water restrictions, although they would be granted only in exceptional circumstances. To be exempted, applicants would have to demonstrate significant hardship and have no practical alternative water source. For more details, and/or to apply for an exemption, go to www.fndc.govt.nz/savewater.

More on restrictions and tips on saving water can be found at www.bewaterwise.org.nz/, while leaks or restriction breaches should be reported to the council on 0800 920-029.