Water demand in Ākitio is at risk of running its water storage dry if increased water conservation measures are not taken immediately.

Ākitio had a scheduled water restriction of Total Outdoor Ban imposed on 1 December in anticipation of increased visitor numbers over the summer months.

Low water consent, added to combined resident and visitor numbers places significant demand on the Ākitio water supply that cannot be sustained.

Tararua District Council is asking Ākitio residents and visitors to conserve water as much as they can. In addition, Tararua District Council is asking all visitors to Ākitio to be considerate of the water supply challenges Ākitio residents face, daily, and ask that they bring their own drinking water with them to use during their stay in Ākitio.

Due to the dry conditions, water levels in the Ākito River have dropped.  This has already resulted in reduced consent to draw water from the Ākitio River.

While there is some scattered rain forecast over the next week, it is not expected to be substantial or prolonged and the benefits to Ākitio will be minimal.

Water levels are being monitored daily and Council will deploy a truck and trailer with water to top up Ākitio’s water tanks when required but the key message remains for all Ākitio residents and visitors to conserve their water.

Impactful water saving tips can be found on the Tararua District Council water pages at:
www.tararuadc.govt.nz/services/water-and-wastewater