Water restrictions lifted in North Otago

2:54 pm on 7 December 2018

A week-long water shortage in North Otago has now ended and the local council is looking at ways to avoid any repetition.

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Photo: 123rf

Water restrictions were in place after the reservoir reached critical levels.

Ōamaru's water supply was sitting at one fifth of its capacity after being inundated with turbid water it couldn't treat quick enough.

Restrictions have been in place for about 15,000 people and businesses since last Friday.

Waitaki District Council assets group manager Neil Jorgensen said more water was being used than could be produced by the plant.

The council was looking at how to prevent the issue from happening again, Mr Jorgensen said.

More pumps will be installed to move clean water faster into the reservoir and new membranes will be added to better filter the water, he said.

The council will consider whether to fast-track a new treated water storage unit that, if approved, could be built and operating by 2021.