Aucklanders have reduced their water consumption following requests by Watercare but more savings are urgently needed. Everyone is being asked to use 20 litres less water per day.

This is because this week’s storm has restricted the treatment capacity of the city’s largest water treatment plant. 

In the past 24 hours, Aucklanders have collectively used 415 million litres of water. Total consumption needs to drop below 400 million litres of water per day.

“Our Save 20 target is easily achievable,†says Watercare Chief Executive Raveen Jaduram. “To put it in perspective, it’s only a few minutes less in the shower and turning off the tap when brushing teeth.â€

“Ardmore Water Treatment Plant, which supplies up to two thirds of the Auckland region’s water, is continuing to operate at half its capacity due to an unprecedented level of silt in the water coming from the Hunua dams.

“We are maximising production at our four other metropolitan plants which include those in Waikato and Huia.

“Currently we are meeting demand – none of our customers are without water – and the quality of the water has not been compromised. It’s safe to drink straight from the tap.

“The situation at Ardmore is stable but if we can’t achieve the targeted water usage savings we may be forced to release partially treated water into the region’s supply. In such a situation, a boil water notice would be issued.â€

Last night saw approximately 100mm of rain fall in the Hunua Ranges and Waitakere Ranges, which is where nine of our water storage dams are located.

“The clarity of the water entering the Ardmore Water Treatment Plant is still about 100 times worse than what we would expect to see entering the plant.â€

Watercare says water quality has not been compromised; however it is essential that everyone reduces their water use until the end of the month.

This applies to everyone connected to Auckland’s metropolitan water supply network – those living as far south as Pukekohe and as far north as Waiwera.

It’s easy to save water: 

1. Cut your shower time by two minutes: Approximate saving = 16 litres
2. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. Approximate saving = 4 litres
3. Only run your dishwasher when it’s full.
4. Only run your washing machine when it’s full.
5. Use the half-flush on your toilet.

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On a side note but related to the flooding:

“Rural Support Trust is asking farmers with information about what is happening in their area or if they are experiencing any issues to please call them on 0800 787 254.â€