6 April 2020

Watering restrictions have been eased today for Greytown and Featherston. Increased rainfall and a steady decline in water demand with the change in season means that limited use of garden sprinklers and irrigation systems is fine.

However, as rainfall in Martinborough has been light, hand-held only watering restrictions remain in place for now.

South Wairarapa Mayor Alex Beijen is delighted with Martinborough, Greytown and Featherston’s efforts in water conservation during the summer period.

“Our communities have done exceptionally well this summer in conserving water when asked and responding to the various water restrictions that we’ve had to put in place. Together we’ve managed to navigate our way through with everyone playing their part – thank you!” says Mr Beijen.

“We’re also pleased to announce that our Manganese Reduction Plant project in Martinborough will continue over the lock-down period as it is a critical project” says Mr Beijen.

This means that contractors working on the project will continue to access and work on the site, following COVID-19 operational protocols.

“Effectively removing the manganese from the town supply and being able to return to drawing water from more than one bore is the best course of action to ensure clean, clear, safe and secure water for the town. Keeping this project going means that it will be operational in spring 2020 – in plenty of time for summer” says Mr Beijen.

Alternate-day watering restrictions are in place year-round in South Wairarapa – even numbered properties on even numbered dates and odd numbered properties on odd numbered dates. This also applies to further restrictions, meaning Martinborough will still need to follow alternate watering while on hand-held watering restrictions.

We’d also like to remind people that the easing of restrictions is a good time to check and refill any emergency water storage containers.

ENDS