Chlorination of Punakaiki’s water supply completed

Chlorination of the Punakaiki Water Supply is now complete, ensuring a safe, reliable, and compliant drinking water supply for residents and visitors. This upgrade aligns the supply with New Zealand’s Water Services Act 2021 and the Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules (DWAQR).

Chlorination was introduced to the Punakaiki Water Supply in December 2024 as a mandatory requirement under the DWAQR to protect public health and prevent contamination within the reticulated network. This additional layer of disinfection ensures the long-term safety and reliability of the water supply.

Fine-tuning the chlorine dosing presented some challenges due to Punakaiki’s fluctuating demand for water over the summer months, but thanks to the expertise of WestReef Services and water treatment specialists FILTEC, alongside Council staff, the system is now fully optimised and operational.

Minor system enhancements will continue to be made, though these improvements will not have a noticeable effect on the chlorine dosing operations. Additionally, Council is working closely with major water consumers to stabilise town-wide water demand and ensure a more consistent chlorine dosing process.

Group Manager Infrastructure Services Anthony Blom says: “Council acknowledges that this transition has required the community to make adjustments, and sincerely thanks Punakaiki residents for their patience, cooperation, and understanding throughout this process.

Ensuring a safe and compliant drinking water supply remains a top priority for council, and the community’s support has been invaluable in achieving this milestone.”

Residents are reminded that due to the Punakaiki Water Supply’s large water storage capacity, it may take some time for chlorinated water to fully circulate through the system. If your property has been unoccupied for a while, council recommends flushing an outdoor tap for at least 20 minutes before using the internal water supply.

Council remains committed to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water for all Punakaiki residents. For further information, including answers to frequently asked questions about chlorination, please visit the Buller District Council website and search ‘Punakaiki chlorination’.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
Media.Enquiries@bdc.govt.nz 

Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.