2.09pm, Thursday 21 February
Martinborough residents no longer need to boil water following confirmation that the town’s water supply network has been cleared of contamination. Results from the third day of water testing, since the town water network flush was completed at the weekend, have all come back clear of E.coli.
The UV disinfection unit, which was identified as the likely cause of the contamination, has been thoroughly tested and confirmed to be working to manufacturer’s specifications, alleviating any concern of a repeat of the malfunction.
The boil water notice was issued on 1 February, on the eve of the Martinborough Fair. It has been a challenging three weeks for Council, local businesses and residents. During this time, Council has worked with Wellington Water and Regional Public Health to systematically investigate all the possible sources of contamination, identify the cause, and clear the contamination.
Council is very thankful to the businesses, residents and visitors in Martinborough for the way they have handled this situation.
South Wairarapa Mayor Viv Napier says, “we’re very relieved to be able to share this news today. We understand the inconvenience the boil water notice has caused people, and we’ve worked as quickly as we could have to get it lifted.
“Protecting public health has always been our top priority. It’s good news that the event has not resulted in any increase in illness in the area.
“Thank you again to everyone who has worked with us, and co-operated with us, to reach this outcome today,” says Ms Napier.
Routine sampling and testing continues, to provide confidence that the town’s water stays safe to drink. Council will be undertaking a full review of the event, and this will be shared with the community.
At the Council Meeting yesterday, the decision was made to bring forward the installation of a manganese extraction plant to allow for possible chlorination of the town’s water in future.
This is the final daily update for this issue. Related news regarding the post-incident review and community debrief will be made available on our website and FB page, and posters within the town.
If you have any feedback in relation to this event, please email martinboroughwater@swdc.govt.nz.
Further information is available at swdc.govt.nz/Martinborough-town-water-situation or call 06 306 9611.
Media contact
Amy Wharram
027 252 2863
