MEDIA RELEASE
Ruapehu District Council

Raetihi Diesel Spill - #1
Alternative Water Sources Investigated

Ruapehu District Council (RDC) and its partner agencies are investigating the source of an alternative water supply for Raetihi.

RDC Civil Defence Controller, Peter Till, said that the diesel contamination was still working its way out underground from the Turoa ski field and into the Makotuku Stream that supplies water to Raetihi.

“It will take some time for the diesel that leaked into the ground to find its way out into the stream,” he said.

“Due to the time delay as this occurs in order to get the water back on as soon as possible and to have a clean source of water to flush the system out with the best solution is to find alternative source of which we have a couple of options.”

“Over the course of today council will be organizing showers and the delivery of 14, 1,100 litre water tanks to be located around the township along with the 22 port-a-loos that are already in place.”

“Water has been available from tankers in the Raetihi township.”

“Council is also bringing in 20 litre water tanks that will be made available to anyone who needs them.”

“Water is being delivered to anyone who is not able to pick up and we will also be assisting to get people to the showers when they are operational.”

Mr Till said that the Raetihi sewerage system is still operational and people can flush their toilets by filling the cistern manually.

“However because the contaminated water is a hazard to anyone who may inadvertently drink it and would pollute residential plumbing council has decided against turning the water back on immediately.”

“As soon the logistics around the showers and water tanks and containers is confirmed that information will be released to the media and put up on council’s website; www.ruapehudc.govt.nz”

“People can also go to council’s office on Seddon St for information or to request assistance.”

PETER TILL
CHIEF EXECUTIVE

ENDS

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