Norsewood Water Supply
Tararua District Council continues to monitor manganese levels in the Norsewood water supply, and is taking steps to manage and reduce manganese levels in the network.
About manganese
There have been recordings at some of our sampling points in Norsewood where Manganese levels have exceeded the maximum acceptable value.
Manganese is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in many water sources. Elevated levels can occur when water has been sitting in parts of the network for an extended period or in areas with low flow. Short-term exposure to water with manganese levels above the mandatory standard is not generally a risk to health. However, too much manganese over a long period of time may negatively affect human health.
It can also cause discolouration or staining of water and is generally considered an aesthetic issue.
For information about manganese and potential health considerations, see the guidance of the Water Services Authority - Taumata Arowai:
What this means for you
Current public health advice indicates there is no immediate health risk for the general population, and you can continue to use your water as normal.
If you have specific health concerns, particularly regarding bottle-fed infants or someone with a medical condition, please consult your healthcare provider.
We are continuing to communicate about manganese while it remains an issue, in line with requirements from the Water Services Authority – Taumata Arowai.
What Council is doing
Council is continuing to monitor and manage manganese levels through a range of measures, including:
- Increased sampling to closely monitor manganese levels.
- Additional sampling in Lower Norsewood to better understand water quality in this part of the network.
- Network flushing to refresh water and remove mineral deposits from older steel and galvanised pipework.
- Treatment plant optimisation, including reviewing the operation of the Norsewood Water Treatment Plant and implementing recommendations to improve its performance.
- Network improvements to address ongoing water quality issues and provide longer-term solutions.
Council previously completed an upgrade of the Norsewood Water Treatment Plant. While the upgrade improved the treatment system, manganese remains an issue in parts of the network given the age and condition of the network, and further work is required.
Norsewood Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
Find out more about the Norsewood Water Treatment Plant upgrade here: Norsewood Water Treatment Plant Upgrade | Tararua District Council
Keeping you informed
We understand that ongoing water quality issues can be concerning. Council will continue to monitor manganese levels and provide updates to the Norsewood community as work progresses.
If you have questions about the Norsewood water supply, please contact Tararua District Council.