Media release originally from Wellington Water

Martinborough needs to urgently conserve more water South Wairarapa district is currently at Level 2 Water Restrictions. While this had helped the Martinborough reservoir capacity recover to 75% by Tuesday, together with the water treatment plant working fully, there is a risk that a high influx of visitors to the area over the next few days could put more pressure on supply.

Stage 2 of the New Zealand Cycle Classic Race reaches Martinborough tomorrow, Thursday 11 January, which is fantastic for the district. However, the bike race will now max out the capacity and eat into the storage gains made.

As at 2pm today, Wednesday 10 January, storage capacity was down to 64%, and declining as water consumption is higher than the plant can service. We need everyone, residents, businesses and visitors in Martinborough, to ease off their water usage to avoid level 3 restrictions being recommended by Wellington Water to South Wairarapa District Council.

Stefan Corbett, South Wairarapa District Council’s Group Manager, Partnerships and Operations, says “The request applies to residential and commercial properties. If we all do our bit, then we can hopefully avoid further restrictions.”

Wellington Water will continue to closely monitor the situation and work closely with South Wairarapa District Council regarding the risk of further water restrictions this summer. We will keep the public informed if the situation changes.

“In the meantime, we encourage everyone to make changes to reduce their water use,” adds Stefan. “Small changes such as taking shorter showers (no more than 4 minutes), not running the tap while brushing your teeth, not watering gardens as often, and doing fewer or only doing full loads of washing can all make a real difference.” For more helpful water saving tips, visit Wellington Water’s website: https://www.wellingtonwater.co.nz/resources/topic/water-conservation/watercalculator/

Water Restrictions – what they mean for residents
Level Two: No irrigation or sprinklers. Water your garden by hand only at any time so long as it’s not unattended.
Level Three: Stop all outdoor water use. Consider using less water indoors. Business can continue as normal but encouraged to be pragmatic and responsible.
Level Four: Significantly reduce indoor water use – by up to 50% – to ensure there is enough water for everyone. Stop all outdoor water use. Business to also significantly reduce water use.

Media Enquiries
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