Opoho residents remain without water

Around 200 homes in the Dunedin suburb of Opoho remain without water. Photo / Greg Bowker

Around 200 homes in the Dunedin suburb of Opoho remain without water today after a falling tree ruptured a water main late yesterday afternoon.

Dunedin City Council spokesman Rodney Bryant said the homes lost water after the pipe, which runs through a pine plantation, was ruptured by the root of a falling tree brought down in the high winds.

Mr Bryant said the problem should be fixed this afternoon.

"Crews weren't able to get out and work last night because the conditions were too dangerous," he said. "At the earliest time they think they can begin work is between 2pm and 4pm."

Mr Bryant said the problem was exacerbated by the 30 degree Celsius temperature experienced in the city yesterday, which meant people wanted to use their water.

The council has parked two water tankers in the area to give the residents some access to water, he said.

- NZ HERALD STAFF