October 3, 2013

Diesel spill #2: Consent holders advised to look for sheen and smell

Horizons Regional Council is advising consent holders along the Makotuku Stream and Mangawhero River to exercise caution in taking water from these waterways following a diesel spill at Turoa ski field base in Tongariro National Park.

The Council’s incident response team is currently working to contain and assess the extent of the spill. However, as sample results confirming the presence of hydrocarbons will not be returned for two weeks, people are advised to exercise caution and be aware of the signs.

Horizons incident controller Craig Grant says consent holders concerned that diesel may be present in their water take should look for a rainbow sheen and strong smell.

“It is likely that stock will turn up their nose at any water that has been contaminated, but it is something for farmers to be aware of and we do advise carrying out visual and sniff tests,” he says.

“Our initial response team is currently on-site to contain the spill and will be looking at longer-term options for clean-up once we are fully aware of its extent.”

The spill has caused the closure of Raetihi’s water supply. Residents of Raetihi are being provided fresh water from tankers situated at the Four Square store at Seddon Street, and are advised to visit Ruapehu District Council’s website www.ruapehu.govt.nz for more information.

Horizons will continue to work closely with Ruapehu District Council, the Department of Conservation and local Iwi. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

ENDS

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