Water restrictions have been introduced throughout Southland district.
Low rainfall in Southland district since before Christmas has depleted the levels of Southland rivers, streams, aquifers and lakes.
To conserve water, unattended sprinklers or hoses are not allowed to operate anywhere on Southland District Council’s water networks. These restrictions are to ensure Council can continue to supply water for consumption and firefighting.
Council is also restricting all carting of water from its networks until further notice.
Consumers are encouraged to take all practical steps to reduce water use. Here are some helpful tips:
- don’t wash windows, footpaths, driveways, buildings and cars unless safety is an issue
- if water is required, use a bucket or watering can instead of your hose or water blaster
- use a trigger on your hose to direct water where you need it most
- collect water from showering, cooking, washing and rain and re-use in your garden
- turn off the tap while brushing teeth
- take shorter showers
- fix household water leaks
- use less water when cleaning
- report any leaks to Southland District Council on 0800 732 732.
There is no certainty about when the restrictions will be relieved, and more stringent restrictions may be required before that occurs. It will take significant rainfall across the district wide to reverse the current water shortage.