Water restrictions introduced in Waikato and Hamilton
Residents in Hamilton and the Waikato district are permitted to use domestic sprinkler and irrigation systems between 6am-8am and 6pm-8pm only, following the introduction of water alert level 1 today.
The need for water restrictions in Hamilton and the Waikato district has been triggered by a significant increase in water consumption over the past two weeks, largely due to increasing periods of hot, dry weather, as well as forecasts for more fine weather ahead.
Hamilton City Council City Waters Manager Tim Harty said while water restrictions generally come into effect prior to Christmas, wet weather in the area over the recent holiday season helped keep water consumption levels relatively low throughout this period.
“Now that the weather is heating up and more residents are returning home to Hamilton and the Waikato from their summer holiday destinations, the city and district’s water consumption has been increasing significantly,” he said.
“By introducing water alert level 1 and its corresponding water restrictions, it is helping to manage the increasing demand for this limited and precious resource, and ensure water consumption remains at sustainable levels.”
Waikato District Council Water & Facilities general manager Richard Bax urged all residents to abide by the restrictions now in place.
"We hope the introduction of the first level of water restrictions will effectively manage consumption throughout this peak demand period,” he said.
“We ask that all residents abide by the restrictions that have come into effect and also take proactive steps to conserve water where ever possible – simple things like taking shorter showers, fixing leaking taps and washing cars with a bucket of water instead of a hose can all help to ease demand on water during this period of peak demand.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
NAME: Narelle Barrowcliffe
DESIGNATION: Communications Advisor, Waikato District Council
TEL (DIRECT): 07 824 8633
MOBILE: 027 551 1601
FAX (DIRECT): 07 824 5892
EMAIL: narelle.barrowcliffe@waidc.govt.nz