Water shortage still an issue for North Shore residents

Our water reserves are currently at 60%.

Watercare Services Limited has officially announced that drought conditions exist in the Auckland region after experiencing a sustained period of low rainfall over summer. North Shore City Council is advising local residents to restrict water use as a precaution to avoid future water shortages.

Water usage has risen throughout the Auckland region by two percent more than predicted. The current volume of water consumed daily by North Shore City is equivalent in size to 26 Olympic swimming pools.

Auckland’s main source of water supply comes from the Hunua and Waitakere Ranges. Current water levels are just below average for this time of year due to diligent management of storage lakes and the Waikato River. However, water savings are being advised at this stage as a precaution in preventing potential water shortages if Auckland is faced with a dry winter.

North Shore City Council states that water restrictions will not be implemented at this stage but is encouraging residents to use water at optimal times. Examples of these are watering gardens and lawns in the mornings or evenings which will see a 15 percent drop in evaporation rate of the water usage, making efficient water use cost effective for residents.

North Shore City’s General Manager Infrastructure Services, Geoff Mason, says that residents should be looking to conserve water by developing habits of efficient water use.

“It is important for all local residents to contribute to the conservation of water, in achieving a more sustainable environment” says Geoff Mason.

Local residents are also being encouraged to promptly detect and repair any leaks within their homes.