Wanganui Mayor Michael Laws says a water crisis for the city has
hastened a search for an alternative supply.
Last Friday, one of the city's three main bore pumps failed after sand got in the system, forcing the district council to reduce water pressure and employ sprinkler bans.
Mr Laws, says it's highlighted the need to fast track a search for another, permanent supply.
He says construction of more water bores to improve and safeguard the city's water could begin by 2011.
The bore is back online, but with reduced capacity. The council says there should be full water supply within six weeks.