Boil Water Notice issued for Pongaroa water supply, Thursday 17 June 2024, 3.15pm.

Tararua District Council has issued a boil water notice for the Pongaroa water supply. Due to rain in the ranges water turbidity has increased significantly and the UV-Lamp at the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) is no longer working.

Consequently, the treatment plant is not able to treat water according to NZ Drinking Water Standards.

Spare parts have been ordered to repair the filter at the head of the water scheme to reduce turbidity and are scheduled to arrive in NZ by the end of next week.

Repairs will occur in July once the spare-parts have arrived and there is a period of clear and settled weather.

Should more rain events occur prior to these repairs it is likely that further Boil water Notices will have to be issued for Pongaroa.

Until notified, Pongaroa residents are advised to boil water before using it for:

drinking (including making of sachet juice/drinks);

• making ice;
• food preparation;
• brushing teeth; and
• preparing infant/toddler formula.

Electric jugs with a cut-off switch can be used as long as they are full – allow the water to come to the boil and wait for it to switch off (do not hold the switch down to increase the boiling time). Water can also be placed in a clean metal pan and brought to a rolling boil for one minute. Boiled water should be covered and allowed to cool in the same container.

People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, pregnant women, and some elderly may be at increased risk.

These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor or Healthline 0800 611 116.

Residents that have other houses or have tenants on their property are requested to advise them that a Boil Water Notice has been issued.

Residents are also asked to conserve water where possible.

Regular updates will be provided.

For any enquiries please contact us at info@tararuadc.govt.nz or give the team a call (06 374 4080 or 06 376 0110)