Manukau Water Testing Programme

Manukau City (14 May, 2007) Manukau Water Limited will be testing water pressure and flow rates throughout Manukau City over the next two months as part of a programme to plan for water-supply needs in 50 years time.

The water testing programme, which is being carried out in conjunction with bulk water supplier Watercare Services Limited, is the most comprehensive testing programme ever undertaken on Manukau Water Limited's water network.

Martin Smith, general manager of Infrastructure for Manukau Water, said the testing programme will provide extensive new data so that the computer models which are used to plan the City's future water supplies can be developed further and refined.

"As we look 50 years out we are committed to making sure we provide safe, high quality drinking water to our customers at all times. As part of this service commitment, we want to make sure our water network is able to cope with growth in the City, provides security of supply, and is as efficient as possible," Mr Smith said. "Making sure we have accurate pressure and flow data for our existing network is therefore vitally important," he added.

The testing programme will include testing the flow of more than 100 fire hydrants throughout the City and monitoring pressure at more than 150 points along the network.

"In addition we will be conducting further flow test and surveys along the network," Mr Smith said.

For the most part the testing will be unseen by the more than 300,000 people who currently use Manukau Water Limited's water network.

"But rest assured that we're making sure the water supply is secure, and will be ready to cope with future changes in water demand," Mr Smith said.

The testing will occur from mid-May to the end of June, with customers being sent a flyer which details the approximate time the testing will take place in their area.

If Manukau Water Limited customers notice a slight drop in water pressure during the testing period, or if water becomes slightly discoloured, then they can wait 30 minutes and then run the tap until the water is clear. If people have any concerns or questions they can call Manukau Water Limited on 09 262 8989.

Manukau Water Limited manages more than $1 billion of water and wastewater assets in the community. The testing programme will enable the company to refine its assessment of the performance of its water assets for both existing and future scenarios. It will help to identify areas and assets where operational standards, security of supply or service levels might require further investment.

Manukau Water Limited's long-term investment and improvement programme is detailed in its Asset Management Programme, which is available on the company's website.

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