Recent dry weather is straining capacity across the Council's three water zones – Katikati, Te Puna and Te Puke – but the greatest concern is in the eastern catchment of Te Puke, Paengaroa, Pongakwa, Maketu and Pukehina.

A hand-held hose only restriction is in place in the Te Puke catchment – this includes all households and all orchards in that catchment that are on Council water supply.

Council has been able to lower consumption by about 10 per cent in the Te Puke catchment by slightly reducing water pressure at the plant.

However on peak use days water consumption has exceeded capacity triggering the hand-held hose only restriction.

Council's utilities manager Kelvin Hill says the water use restrictions will remain in place until the end of February unless more major rain events occur.

“The odd downpour or shower does not do a great deal to relieve the pressure on underground aquifers – the District’s primary water supply source”, says Kelvin.

“If everyone reduces their daily use it will save Council from having to put tougher restrictions in place.”