Frequently Asked Questions – Boil Water Advisory (Riverlands)

Following a directive from the Water Services Authority – Taumata Arowai, a boil water advisory has been issued. The Riverlands water supply is not treated for bacteria or protozoa. Boiling water protects consumers from any risk of health effects from bacteria or protozoa contamination.

There has been no change to the water supplied on this scheme. However, the absence of bacteria or protozoa treatment barriers presents a risk to public health. Until a new treatment plant is built, boiling water for consumption will remove this risk.

Bacteria and protozoa are microscopic organisms that can cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Babies, young children, pregnant women, the elderly and people who have weakened immune systems are more at risk of illness. Bacteria and protozoa, such as cryptosporidium, can contaminate source water when animal faeces enter waterways and shallow bores.

Boil any water used for:

• Drinking
• Food preparation
• Brushing teeth
• Making up baby formula and juices
• Making ice
• Washing fruits and vegetables
• Washing dishes
• Pet drinking water

Use either boiled water or bottled water for these activities.

Using an automatic jug

• Fill the jug
• Let it come to the boil and for it to switch off automatically
• Let the water stand in the jug for a minute before use.
• Refrigerate until needed

Boiling water in a pot

• Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, then allow it to cool naturally before use

Refrigerate until needed

No. If you have a high-quality filter with a 5 micron or less pore size and a UV system it will treat protozoa.

Planning for a Riverlands Water Treatment Plant is underway and due for completion in June 2028. The plant will include cartridge filtration and ultraviolet (UV) treatment process for bacteria and protozoa. The boil water advisory will be lifted when the treatment construction is completed.

The advisory follows a directive from Taumata Arowai, reflecting the requirements of the Water Services Act 2021. While the water has not changed, the absence of bacteria and protozoa barriers (treatment) is now considered a public health risk.

Businesses need to assess the risks and continue to ensure water used in food and beverage preparation is safe for the intended purpose. This may require consideration to treat water within your premises - for example using a high-quality cartridge filter with a 5 micron or less pore size, followed by an ultraviolet disinfection unit. Contact Council for specific guidance.

There is a wide range of information about drinking water quality available on the Water Services Authority website at www.taumataarowai.govt.nz

If you are unable to find the answer to your question there, phone or email Council for further advice.

Inform family, guests, staff and customers who may use the water supply.

Yes, but avoid swallowing water. Extra caution is advised for vulnerable individuals.

No this is not considered necessary.

Ensure guests are informed and provided with safe drinking water options.

This advisory will be in place until the new treatment plant is complete, estimated to be in June 2028.

Property owners/landlords have to inform their tenants. Council does not hold contact information for tenants in the industrial estates. Where Council invoices tenants for trade waste charges we will inform those we have information for.