With already dry conditions and the forecast showing continued high temperatures, Level 3 water restrictions are being introduced for Waimārama from today, Friday 7 November, Hastings District Council has announced.
Council’s three waters manager, Steve Cave said the restrictions were necessary to help conserve water for the summer months ahead.
“Only two days of decent rain have fallen in the past three months in Waimārama (and Hastings widely). That means the ground and local water sources are much drier heading into summer, so we’re having to move to restrictions earlier than usual to help ensure everyone has enough water over the coming months,” said Mr Cave.
The Level 3 restriction applies to all homes in Waimārama that are connected to a public water supply. Under Level 3, sprinkler use is banned – only hand-held hoses can be used on alternate days between the hours of 6am and 8am, and 7pm and 9pm.
No further restrictions are being applied to the rest of Hastings at this stage, which remains at Level 1. Council will continue to monitor consent conditions and demand triggers and will move to Level 2 water restrictions when needed.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to use water wisely to reduce the pressure on the aquifer, rivers and streams.
