Whakatāne District Council has today lifted water restrictions for Ōhope and Whakatāne, following a significant improvement in river conditions that had previously impacted the water supply.
Recent monitoring has confirmed that the salinity reach in the river has now retreated well downstream of the regular intake near the Whakatāne water treatment plant. This change has enabled the plant to return to full production capacity, meaning the supply can now meet normal demand levels.
“We’re very pleased to advise that under the current circumstances we’re in a position to remove water restrictions,” says Manager Three Waters, Jim Finlay.
“The community’s response to the call for conservation was fantastic, and we’d like to thank everyone who did their part to reduce water use.”
Council teams will continue to monitor conditions closely. While restrictions are no longer in place, the Council encourages residents to continue using water wisely as a long-term habit.