Drought town expects water crisis to ease

The lack of rain in the Far North is leaving a mark. Photo / Christine Cornege

Kaitaia's drought has not eased but careful water conservation is expected to pull the town through its long water-shortage crisis.

Far North District Council asset and infrastructure manager David Penny was optimistic this week that Kaitaia would not run out of water.

Ultra-sonic equipment at the Kauri Dam was clearing water of a toxic algal bloom so it may be able to be used.

The dam holds enough water to supply Kaitaia for up to 30 days.

Mr Penny praised a 30 per cent reduction in household water use achieved by the town's 5600 residents.

"If we [council and residents] keep working together, we'll get through this," he said.

Fears of Kaitaia running dry were allayed by a Northland Regional Council assurance that the town would always have access to water while the Awanui River was flowing.

- APN