Ōamaru Conserve Water Notice to remain in place

Published on 13 July 2026

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The conserve water notice remains in place for the Ōamaru Water Supply, which serves communities from Ōamaru North to Moeraki, including Weston, Enfield, Kakanui, Maheno, Herbert and Hampden.

The notice was issued after last week’s significant weather event affected the supply network.

During the event, high turbidity meant we could not pump from the water race that feeds the water supply. This left the stored water in Ardgowan Dam as the only available supply.

The conserve water notice was issued when only two days of usable water remained. We have since resumed pumping from the race to refill Ardgowan Dam, despite continued turbidity.

The treatment plant has also been running at a reduced rate so we can continue providing safe, compliant drinking water without placing unnecessary pressure on the plant.

To reduce demand, the Hamnak pipeline was turned off on Thursday. This pipeline supplies Kakanui, Maheno, Herbert, Hampden, Waianakarua and Moeraki.

Customers on this part of the network have restricted supplies and are required to keep three days of water on hand. The pipeline was restarted on Saturday after being off for two days. This was a necessary step to protect the wider water supply.

Turbidity has now stabilised, and we are pumping at a higher rate to help refill the dam. If recovery continues, we expect to lift the conserve water notice late this week or early next week.

However, household and business water use has not dropped significantly. Most of the recovery so far has come from temporarily turning off the Hamnak pipeline, with yesterday’s use similar to the same time last week before the conserve notice was issued.

Until dam levels recover, the supply remains vulnerable if another weather event occurs. Every household and business can help by reducing non-essential water use now.

ENDS

media@waitaki.govt.nz

 

Please use water wisely: simple ways to help

  • Avoid washing cars, boats or other large outdoor items.
  • Don't refill your swimming pool.

  • Make sure all taps are turned off thoroughly to avoid any dripping.

  • Put a plug in the sink when washing your dishes and vegetables.

  • Keep showers short and avoid using the bath unless needed.

  • Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when it is fully loaded.

  • Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving.

  • Commercial users are asked to minimise water use wherever possible.

 

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