Punakaiki water supply chlorination work ramps up

Chlorination of Punakaiki’s water supply is expected to start next week.

The equipment necessary for automated chlorination will be tested, and staff will attend training as part of preparing for the chlorination of the water supply.

This is to make sure the automated dosing is accurate, and the system is working as required.

Acting Manager Infrastructure Delivery Mel Sutherland says: “This testing stage is carried out at the water treatment plant and won't have any impact on consumers. Once we are satisfied that the system is operating effectively and safely, we will start the permanent chlorination of the Punakaiki water supply.”

Provided the testing goes well, chlorinated water will begin to reach residents’ taps within the following fortnight. This time delay occurs because Punakaiki’s water treatment system has large reservoirs that create a time delay between the water being treated and it reaching people’s taps.

The water team will continue flushing and monitoring throughout this period.

Mr Sutherland says: “The initial phase, involving to instal the new dosing system, pH probes and sensors at the Punakaiki Water Treatment Plant, is complete. We can now begin trialling the equipment for short periods of time to gauge its effectiveness and identify any issues. This operational phase may involve dosing the system on a limited basis to test the water network.”

Council expects that at the start, while any remaining debris in the pipes is chlorinated, there will be a short period where the water will taste stronger. This will dissipate over time, and residents are encouraged to let council know if their water tastes very strong or has an unusual odour or colour.  

Residents can lodge a service request or email info@bdc.govt.nz with the subject ‘Punakaiki chlorination’. This may result in adjustments and further testing.

Mr Sutherland says: ““We are aware that for some people, chlorination may be an unwelcome development, but it is our priority to provide safe drinking water. We are required by law to disinfect the water prior to use.

This applies to all councils in New Zealand. The Westport and Reefton water supplies have already been successfully chlorinated.”

Council’s website contains useful tips and information on what to expect following chlorination. Further details are provided in the FAQs.

-ENDS-

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