The lifting of water alert level 1 comes following a sustained decrease in water consumption, coupled with recent wet weather and cooler temperatures.
Water alert level 1 and its associated water restrictions came into effect in Raglan, Hamilton and Waikato district on 25 January, with this measure proving sufficient in managing water consumption throughout the peak demand period without the need for tighter restrictions.
Hamilton City Council City Waters Manager Tim Harty said this is the first summer since the water alert level system was introduced in the summer of 2008/09 that alert level 2 has not come into effect.
“The water alert level 1 restrictions have been an effective tool in managing demand over the past couple of months and we are confident the demand for water will remain at sustainable levels without the need for further water restrictions in the months ahead,” he said.
Waikato District Council Water and Facilities General Manager Richard Bax thanked residents for abiding by the water restrictions that were in place over summer and encouraged people to continue to use water wisely.
“Even though restrictions have now been lifted, I hope residents will continue to treat water as a limited and precious resource and use it sensibly all year around,” he said.
Hamilton and Waikato’s water alert level system was developed as part of ‘Smart Water Use’ – a regional collaborative effort between Hamilton City Council, Waikato District Council, Environment Waikato and other territorial authorities throughout the greater Waikato to promote proactive water conservation, particularly throughout summer.
WDC Media Release, 7 Mar 2012