Council urges residents to conserve water

Taupo District Council is urging residents throughout the District to take immediate steps to conserve water due to current drought conditions.

Environment Waikato yesterday (Feb 7) declared a drought zone in the Waikato region – which takes in the Taupo District - after recording the driest January in more than 100 years.

Group Manager Infrastructure Services Ted Anderson says although no water restrictions have been imposed, high use across the District is starting to put water resources under stress.

While the District is fortunate to be able to draw water for a number of its supplies – including Taupo township - from Lake Taupo, the lake level is dropping rapidly following months without any substantial rainfall, says Mr Anderson.

“We are asking all residents and visitors to the area to do whatever they can to conserve water. The more we can save now the less chance there will be of having to impose temporary water restrictions if this drought continues as predicted into autumn.”

Mr Anderson said there were some very simple ways people could conserve water without cutting back on their essential water needs. 

• If you need to water the lawn, give it a good soaking for just 30 minutes twice a week. That’s all it needs – the grass roots will grow deeper and the grass will become hardier 
• Water the garden in the morning or evening, close to the ground rather than using a sprinkler that shoots water up into the air, or most of the water will evaporate  
• While the current drought persists please don’t water the road verge outside your house (or driveways and paths)  
• Wash cars and boats by hand rather than with a hose  
• Take shorter showers  
• Only use the laundry or the dishwasher when it is full  
• If you have a dual use toilet system, use it appropriately 
• Cut your lawn on a higher mower setting, and not so often - the longer grass will shade itself and the soil and dry out more slowly.