South Hokianga residents are the first target of Far North District Council water restrictions, in a bid to delay or avoid expected serious shortages later in the summer.
General manager — infrastructure and asset management Andy Finch last week asked Opononi/Omapere and Rawene/Omanaia residents to stop using sprinklers and other than hand-held hoses from Friday, the first day of summer, and to be mindful of their overall water over the months to come.
"Introducing Level 2 water restrictions recognises the drought-sensitive nature of waterways that feed these water supply schemes," he said.
Level 2 restrictions meant it was illegal for residents connected to council water supplies to use automatic or unattended garden hoses, sprinklers and irrigation devices.
"We know that extra demands will be placed on Hokianga water supplies over summer. These restrictions aim to reduce water consumption so we can delay, or avoid altogether, the need for more stringent restrictions later," he said.
