Monday 2 February 1998

JANUARY WATER USE VERY HIGH

Water use in the third week of January was extremely high with average daily water consumption 40% above the five year average.

Last week saw a new high of 864 litres per person per day, due to the hot temperatures over 30 degrees for most of the week.

The final statistics for the month show an average per person use of 642 litres per person, compared to 464 in January 1997 and 639 litres per person in December 1997.

Water services staff report that high water use is of concern and some signs of stress on the distribution system are apparent.

Allan Watson, Council’s Water Services Manager says "We are concerned at the water use over the last month and particularly over the last week, particularly because it was around 40% above the five year average. We are appealing for residents to restrict water use wherever they can."

Following discussions, key staff and Councillors have referred the issue of at what point restrictions may be introduced and the form of any restrictions to a meeting of the City Services Committee on Tuesday 10 February.

For further information contact:

Councillor David Close 03 388-0151
Chair Strategy and Resources

Councillor Denis O’Rourke 03 379-1913
Chair City Services Committee 021 632-670

Councillor Carole Evans 03 379-0631
Chair Environmental Committee

Allan Watson 03 941 8303
Water Services Manager

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