Tararua District Council has issued a precautionary boil water notice for the Ākitio water supply. This is due to the Cyclone Gabrielle related road status of Ākitio, where we are unable to access the treatment plant due to road slippage and have lost communications to the treatment plant.  This has likely resulted in the stoppage of the treatment process and we are unable to confirm that water is still being treated.

Until notified, Ākitio residents are advised to boil water before using it for:

• drinking (including making of sachet juice/drinks);
• making ice;
• food preparation;
• brushing teeth; and
• preparing infant/toddler formula.

We are aware that some residents may be without power at this time and if that is the case we recommend the following:

• utilising non-electric methods of boiling water such as a gas camp stove
• utilising available bottled water
• if unable to boil the water then do not consume it

Electric jugs with a cut-off switch can be used as long as they are full – allow the water to come to the boil and wait for it to switch off (do not hold the switch down to increase the boiling time).  Water can also be placed in a clean metal pan and brought to a rolling boil for one minute.  Boiled water should be covered and allowed to cool in the same container.

People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, pregnant women, and some elderly may be at increased risk. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor or Healthline 0800 611 116.

Residents that have other houses or have tenants on their property are requested to advise them that a Boil Water Notice has been issued.

A further update will be provided by 5pm Wednesday 16 February 2023