Oamaruvians have been urged by Waitaki District Council to continue using water only for ‘‘essential needs’’.
Torrential rain caused flooding across the district last Monday and again on Wednesday following further downpours.
A state of emergency declared last Monday in the wake of the flooding was lifted on Thursday and the Waitaki district is now in a ‘‘recovery transition period’’ — due to last 28 days.
Waitaki District Mayor Mel Tavendale said last week the impact of the event would ‘‘continue for some time’’.
The ‘‘conserve water’’ notice issued for those on the Oamaru water supply remained in place yesterday, the council said in an update.
Council recovery manager Elliot Ball said the notice was ‘‘likely to remain in place well into the week’’, as dam recovery was slow and water production had been ‘‘eased to allow the system to treat highly turbid water safely and effectively’’.
‘‘I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding, and for working with us to reduce water use so we can meet everyone’s essential needs.
‘‘Every litre saved helps support the recovery of the network and keeps pressure on the system manageable while our teams continue their work,’’ Mr Ball said.
‘‘Boil water’’ and ‘‘conserve water’’ notices also remained in place for the Lower Waitaki water supply.
The update comes as roads around the district continue to be assessed, cleared and reopened.
A section of Waterfront Rd in Oamaru was reduced to a single lane.
Geotechnical specialists were called in after concerns were raised about the stability of the clay embankment near the road due to the risk of a slip, ‘‘which could affect the road corridor and the nearby private railway’’, the council said.
Oamaru Steam and Rail trips scheduled for the long Matariki weekend were cancelled.
Drivers travelling through the district were urged to take extra care by authorities and avoid ‘‘unnecessary travel through affected areas’’.
