Akaroa community poised for water restrictions

Tomorrow (Saturday, 10 December) heralds the start of Level 1 water restrictions for the Akaroa community.

This will mean those with odd-numbered street addresses can water outdoors on odd-numbered days, and those with even-numbered street addresses can water outdoors on even-numbered days. Water restriction levels defined.

Christchurch City Council Mayor Bob Parker says more and more Cantabrians are choosing to spend their time in Akaroa over summer, and that can place a huge strain on the town’s stream-fed water supply. For this reason, even though the Akaroa community will be familiar with water restrictions, holiday-makers will also need to be aware of the restriction rules.

“The Akaroa community is used to water restrictions being imposed on an annual basis – it’s second nature for them at this time of year. However, those who spend their holidays in the area will also need to be aware of the restrictions rules, be responsible and conserve water as much as possible,” he says.

Council City Water and Waste Manager Mark Christison says that as with previous years, it is possible that the level of restriction will need to be increased at some stage during the summer season. The Council is monitoring water levels on Banks Peninsula and any changes to the water restrictions will be advertised on signage in Akaroa.

Next year, the Council plans to combine Banks Peninsula water restrictions with those currently in place for Christchurch. This will ensure restriction rules are consistent across the entire Canterbury region.