Sprinklers off in the Hokianga

The Far North District Council yesterday imposed its first water restrictions of the year. The ban on using irrigation systems, sprinklers and hoses (unless hand-held) took effect immediately for all businesses and connected to the Opononi/Omapere and Rawene water supply schemes.

The restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.

The council's general manager infrastructure and asset management, Jacqui Robson, said staff had been reviewing water supply sources throughout the district regularly. A wet December had left most water sources in better shape this summer than at the same time last year, but the combination of hot, dry weather and high demand for water was beginning to put them under pressure.

Some areas were drier than others, and restrictions had so far only been imposed in Rawene, Opononi and Omapere, but the situation across the district was under constant review, and restrictions were possible in other areas if dry weather continued.

The council was therefore urging people in all areas to conserve water, which Ms Robson said would not be difficult.

"There are many easy ways of conserving water that require only a minimal effort. For example, place a bucket in your shower. Use the water collected for your garden. That is water that will otherwise go straight down the drain," she said.

Watering of gardens was best left until evening, when it would have maximum effect. Cars should be left unwashed if possible, while washers on dripping taps should be replaced immediately.

"If everyone makes an effort we can protect our water supplies and ensure we can get through the current situation with minimal inconvenience," Ms Robson added.

The South Hokianga was also the worst-hit area in last summer's long dry spell, its two water schemes depend on drought-sensitive sources, the Petaka Stream at Rawene and the Waiotemarama Stream at Opononi/Omapere. The council and local communities have been investigating alternative supplies for some time. The upcoming long-term plan includes a number of proposals.