Weather puts pressure on water schemes in Clutha District

The Clutha District Council says watering systems and sprinklers should only be used between 8pm and 8am and not be left unattended. Photo: Getty Images

Some residents in the Clutha District have been warned to boil water as the flash-flooding and adverse weather conditions in Central Otago put stress on local water schemes.

In a statement, Clutha District Council service delivery group manager Jules Witt said due to the recent warm weather in Central Otago, all the Clutha District's water schemes were struggling to keep up.

''We ask that consumers in the Clutha District please conserve water use. This includes the Glenkenich and Moa Flat Rural Water Schemes,'' he said.

He asked that watering systems and sprinklers only be used between 8pm and 8am and not be left unattended.

There was also a boil-water notice for customers on the Glenkenich and Richardson North Rural Water Schemes.

Water should be boiled for one minute before it is consumed.

''This includes any water that will be consumed, such as water to brush your teeth, food preparation and washing food that will not be cooked.''

He said the large volume of rain in other areas had made the Pomahaka River extremely dirty where the water for the schemes is extracted from.

There was a risk of bacteriological contamination.

Mr Witt said the supply was being monitored and further testing will be carried out over the next few days.

The boil water notice is in effect until further notice.

Mr Witt advised customers to check their property for overflowing troughs and leaks.
He asked that they be fixed promptly.

''Please also be vigilant for any leaks on water scheme pipelines.''

He asked residents to contact the Clutha District Council if they saw any leaks.