Water restriction recently in force in several townships across the peninsula have now been lifted, says the Thames-Coromandel District Council.

The restriction in Tairua, which had a total hose ban for several weeks, has now been reduced to a sprinkler ban, while locals will be able to use hand-held hoses on alternate days only.

This means even-numbered addresses will be allowed to use hand-held hoses on even-numbered days of the month, such as January 12. Similarly, odd -numbered addresses can use hand-held hoses on odd-numbered days, such as January 11.

A sprinkler-only ban is also in force In Pauanui, Whangamata and Hahei, but locans can use hand-held hoses at any time.

Council also says the Thames South supplies is still under permanent restriction, resulting in a hose and sprinkler ban in Matatoki, and a sprinkler ban only in Puriri and Omahu.

There are currently no water restrictions in place in Whitianga, Matarangi, Thames, Onemana and Coromandel Town.

WATER CONSERVATION TIPS:

Because of the Coromandel's rugged geography, the district's water comes from a variety of natural sources, including streams and bores, explains council.

'These sources supply us not only with drinking water but water for firefighting. Please conserve this precious resource.”

• 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.