Woodville Water Critical -

The Woodville water supply is at crisis point.


The council advised households of the situation on Monday by letter drop.


Recent rain showers have not alleviated the critically low flow of the Mangapapa Stream, the town’s main water supply.


“Water should be for essential use only,” utilities manager Dave Watson warns.


Residents are being thanked for their efforts so far but are now asked to dig deeper.


Suggestions for households include ensuring that washing machines are full before use, washing dishes once daily or using the eco cycle on the dish washer and cleaning teeth with a cup of water.


Flushing the toilet less – if possible - would help and there may be a use for recycled grey water.


Mr Watson said the impact of the prolonged hot dry conditions had gone beyond wishing for “a few showers.”


The Woodville situation was the most severe he had known and it would take 75-100mm of rain over a week to restore water levels to an acceptable level, Mr Watson said.


Meanwhile a total hosing ban applies across the Tararua district.