Kaingaroa water supply advisory: Presence of E.coli and elevated chlorate

Residents in Kaingaroa are advised to boil all tap water prior to drinking and cooking, including brushing teeth, washing food, and cleaning utensils, due to presence of E.coli. This advisory is in until place further notice.

Boiling the water will kill any E.coli in the water. You should bring tap water to a full rolling boil, let it boil for one minute and then let it cool before using. See below when boiled tap water should be used.

Residents may also wish to consider using alternative water due to elevated chlorate levels. The chlorate level is approaching 1 mg/L, which is above the drinking water standard limit of 0.8 mg/L. However, the limit is based on long-term consumption of water by an adult, rather than acute exposure. Boiling the water or using a standard household water filter will not remove the chlorate. You can get alternative drinking water from the filling station in the Fulton Hogan Yard in Waitangi during normal working hours, or you can use bottled water.

We are working hard to resolve these issues and will update the community if the situation changes.

We thank residents for their cooperation and patience during this period.

Contact Colette Peni 03 305 0033 if you wish to discuss this matter.

When to use boiled tap water or alternative drinking water:

• Drinking
• Making drinks using water (eg tea, coffee)
• Making food using water (eg soup)
• Making ice for drinks
• Washing uncooked foods (salad, vegetables, fruit)
• Brushing teeth
• Washing dishes 

Tap water for:

• Hand washing
• Showering and bathing
• Washing clothes
• Flushing the toilet
• Watering the garden