"However, a seismic event can damage well casing and infrastructure, although these effects can be considerably reduced by appropriate well location and construction," the report says.
To date, the knowledge of groundwater resources in the Waimarino Plain was still very limited, the report said.
Ruapehu Mayor Don Cameron said the report considers a multitude of factors that need to be taken into account in any decision on Waimarino's water supply, including water sources, its quality and quantity, supply security and risk from volcanic and seismic activity and other associated risks.
"The diesel contamination of Raetihi's water supply last year focused community attention on the wider questions and issues over a long term, economically viable solution to water supply for the wider Waimarino area," he said.
"We also know from the Christchurch earthquakes that water supplies can be severely disrupted when seismic events change the hydrological profile of an area.
"Council and water users need to consider all these risks and their potential to impact on infrastructure and potential future water sources."
However, Raetihi plumber John McIlroy said the quality of the water in Waimarino had to be the envy of every town in New Zealand.
"We have the best and the most pure water in the country."
He said he'd found the 63 page report disappointing and questions whether the council should have ordered the report at all.
But Mr McIlroy said there were dozens of residents in the area who had very good knowledge of groundwater resources and the major springs around Mount Ruapehu.
"The council need to listen to the people. I've been a plumber here for years and I know about the water in this region. Okay, so the diesel spill in Raetihi happened but it's time to move on and get over it."
Mr McIlroy said he had sent his submission on the report to the council recommending they use the water from the from major springs on the mountain.
"So long as the required volume comes up to health and safety standards it's better than bores that you have to pump out."
Making decisions on the future of Waimarino's water supply is a complex issue that has to balance a wide range of issues both human and geological, Mr Cameron said.
The report has been sent to a number of commercial organisations, sector groups and iwi. It is available online with a link on the council's website: ruapehudc.govt.nz. "The council will also be organising community meetings in due course to discuss the report and its implications," Mr Cameron said.
Mr McIlroy hopes the council listens to the people on this issue.
"This water thing is constantly on my mind and we really need to get it sorted, and use the springs and not bores."
