It's United Nations World Water Day March 22nd. This year's theme is 'Water for peace'
Alert level two means sprinklers and watering systems can only be used on alternate days (even street numbers on even days; odd street numbers on odd days) between 6 - 8am and 6 - 8pm, while hand held hosing can be used any time.
Water services manager Tony Hale said it is fantastic to see the Waipa community getting behind the water saving message, but this is not an opportunity for everyone to significantly increase their water use.
"A combination of increasing rainfall and a drop in water consumption across the district means our water supply is in far better shape than it was before Christmas. However, we need to maintain this level of usage in order to get through the last of summer."
Hale said the situation can change very quickly during the warmer months.
"Just a few hot days causes a significant increase in demand, putting a lot of pressure on our water supply. With forecasts indicating more rain ahead we are in a good position, but we still need everyone to be aware of how they are using water and make smart decisions about any non-essential water use".
In Te Awamutu, the recent rainfall has meant the volume of water in the Mangauika Stream has increased and storage reservoirs have had the opportunity to recover. A decrease in water use in Cambridge has meant the water treatment plant is better able to keep up with demand.
Hamilton City is also at water alert level two, while Waikato District sits at water alert level one.
Hamilton City Council Waters Operations Manager Adam Donaldson says Hamilton is continuing to operate at water alert level two, with daily consumption levels and weather being monitored. The key message to Hamiltonians is to continue to be smart with our water and cut back on non-essential use.
For a list of water saving tips and ideas check out our Smart Water website www.smartwater.org.nz
The Smart Water Starts with You! sub-regional summer campaign aims to make long-term change to how we use water and is a joint venture between Waikato District Council, Hamilton City Council, and Waipa District Council.
About the Water Alert level system:
Water Alert Level 1
Use sprinkler systems between 6am – 8am and 6pm – 8pm.
Hand-held hosing can be used anytime.
Water Alert Level 2
Use sprinkler systems on alternate days between
6am – 8am and 6pm – 8pm.
Hand-held hosing can be used anytime.
Water Alert Level 3
No use of sprinklers.
Hand-held hosing only.
Water Alert Level 4
No use of outside water systems.
For more information, contact: Simone van Asbeck, 027 564 7622