A sprinkler ban is currently in force in Tairua, Whangamata, Puriru and Omahu, plus a hose and sprinkler ban in Matatoki, advises the Thames-Coromandel District Council.

Water usage in the Coromandel has increased significantly recently and production of drinkable water from sources is struggling to keep up with demand as reservoirs are not refilling overnight.

'There are currently no other water restrictions in our district,” says a TCDC spokesperson.

'We're checking water use in our nine urban and two rural water supply schemes regularly and reviewing our water restrictions daily.”

Due to the Coromandel's rugged geography, water is supplied from a variety of natural sources, including streams and bores. These sources supply not only provide drinking water but water for firefighting.

With summer now officially here that not only means hot, dry weather, but also tens of thousands of visitors and holiday-goers to the Thames-Coromandel district, so council is now asking locals and visitors to be water smart.

'If everyone is careful with their use of water, it will lessen the need for more stringent restrictions through the busy holiday period.”

TCDC will provide regular water restriction updates on the home page of their website, along with their Facebook page, their email newsletters, and via Coromandel's MoreFM.

If locals and visitors spot any water leakages or wastage they are being asked to contact the Thames-Coromandel District Council's 24/7 Customer Services line on 07 868 0200.

TOP SMART WATER CONSERVATION TIPS:

• Wait until you can do full loads before you wash dishes or use the washing machine.
• Don't run the water when brushing your teeth.
• For cool drinking water, fill a jug and keep it in the fridge. Running water to cool it down can waste 10 litres a minute.
• For lawns, apply the ‘step test' – if grass springs back after you walk on it, it doesn't need watering. Please do not water the garden in the heat of the day; early morning or evening is better.
• If your toilet has a dual flush button, use the half flush.
• Fix any leaks or dripping taps.
• Please do not fill swimming pools.

COMMUNITY WATER SOURCES:

• Thames Urban: Mangarehu Stream and Kauaeranga Valley River
• Coromandel: Karaka Stream and Waiau Stream
• Matarangi: Opitonui River and groundwater
• Whitianga: Whangamaroro River
• Hahei: Groundwater bore
• Tairua: Pepe Stream and Tributary
• Pauanui: Oturu Stream and groundwater bores
• Onemana: Groundwater bores
• Whangamata: Groundwater bores at Wentworth Valley, Beverley Hills and Moana Point
• Thames Valley: Omahu (supplies Omahu and Hikutaia) and Apakura Stream (supplies Puriri)
• Matatoki: Matatoki Stream