As a precautionary measure from tonight, Wednesday 8 February, we will be supplying chlorinated water to South Kaiapoi.
Chlorine is being introduced as a result of low levels of organic material having been detected. This is a very precautionary approach, taking into account recent feedback from Taumata Arowai, the water regulator for New Zealand, on the chlorine exemption process, and the need to respond even to low level events.
It should be expected that at times chlorine will need to be used as an emergency or temporary measure on some of our schemes. It is an important tool in allowing us to operate non-chlorinated schemes over the long term.
Residents may experience some odour and/or discolouration as a result of this change. If you experience any discoloured water, please flush your taps until this clears. If after 10 minutes your water is still discoloured, please call the Council on 0800 965 468 (0800 WMK GOV).
A more complete update will be provided in the coming weeks outlining the steps Council is going through with its exemption applications overall, including for Woodend and North Kaiapoi.