The current hot, dry weather is causing rivers and streams in many parts of the Horizons Region to run low which means consent holders are encouraged to be proactive about saving water as restrictions take effect.
Restrictions are now in place for the smaller streams of the Tararua district, but parts of the Manawatu, Whanganui and Rangitikei catchments are also being monitored closely.
“While some rain is forecast for next week it is important for consent holders to be mindful of their water use as we set in for what is expected to be a long hot summer,” said Horizons group manager strategy and regulation, Dr Nic Peet.
Horizons’ regulations around water use allow for certain quantities of water to be taken out of rivers and streams when they are flowing above a minimum level. Once the rivers drop below that level, restrictions are put on the limit and in some cases stop water being taken.
Dr Peet said Horizons recognises that water takes providing people with clean safe drinking water will need to continue even where rivers are below minimum flows.
“We are communicating with our district and city councils to ensure water is used efficiently and that appropriate restrictions are in place for urban use. Water takes for stock water will need to continue as this is a significant welfare issue.”
Dr Peet said irrigators are often among the first impacted by water restrictions as provision of water for people and animals is the first priority.
“Throughout the region, current compliance with low flow restrictions is excellent with no non compliances issued over the past year. Consent holders are encouraged to continue to adhere to consent conditions in order to provide for people and animals and manage impacts on the environment.”
Horizons are monitoring river flows on a daily basis and publish information on their website www.horizons.govt.nz . Consent holders are encouraged to check the data on the website regularly and if a consent holder is concerned about water restrictions and how it affects them, they can call Horizons on 0508 800 800.
Water restrictions are currently in place at the following locations until further notice:
- Mangapapa at Troup Road
- Raparapawai at Jackson Road
- Tamaki at Stephensons
- Tamaki at Water supply Weir