Treatment plant malfunction sparks water alert for Pyes Pa

A water warning was issued for residents of Pyes Pa and The Lakes on Thursday. Photo/file

An equipment malfunction at a Joyce Rd treatment plant prompted an urgent warning for residents in Pyes Pa and The Lakes to avoid using their water for a few hours yesterday.

Tauranga City Council issued a warning after high pH levels in the area's water supply caused the water to feel soapy and result in skin or mouth irritations.

Water had since returned back to normal for Pyes Pa and The Lakes but residents were still encouraged to notify the council of any water issues.

Tauranga City Council communications advisor Marcel Currin said a system alert notified the council of an equipment malfunction at a Joyce Rd plant which caused the high pH levels.

The pH level in the Joyce Rd Reservoir had since returned to normal operating levels and Mr Currin said the council would investigate the malfunction.

Water supply to other areas was isolated which meant the only affected areas were Pyes Pa and The Lakes.

Toi Te Ora Public Health Service medical officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet had not been notified or been made aware of anyone who experienced any symptoms or raised any health concerns.

He said the high pH level reported meant the water was more alkaline than it should be.

"The main concern about this is that it could have caused skin irritation and eye irritation in some people.

"If anyone has had any symptoms about which they are concerned, it is best to call or see their family doctor for advice."

The council would continue to monitor the pH levels in affected areas and had maintenance teams to flush specific areas where needed.

Residents in Pyes Pa and The Lakes who noticed their water still felt a bit soapy were advised to phone the council on 07 577 7000 so a maintenance team could flush the water pipes in the area.