Gore residents should continue to use bottled water for drinking
The Gore District Council is advising Gore residents to continue using bottled water for drinking purposes today (19 July), as a precautionary measure.
This follows advice issued yesterday after routine testing detected nitrate levels in Gore’s water supply that were slightly above the maximum acceptable value (MAV). The result showed a nitrate concentration of 11.4mg/L – just 0.1mg/L over the MAV of 11.3mg/L.
General Manager Critical Services Jason Domigan said staff are continuing efforts to reduce nitrate levels by diluting the supply at Cooper’s Well, Gore’s primary water source.
In addition, targeted sampling is being conducted at the East Gore Water Treatment Plant to confirm that dilution has lowered nitrate levels. Following this work, samples will be taken across the water supply network to ascertain when the water is safe to drink.
The Council expects to receive the next set of test results from the accredited laboratory by approximately 5:00pm this evening, after which an update will be provided, Mr Domigan said.
In the meantime, free drinking water is available at the following locations. Residents are reminded to bring their own containers:
- Eccles Street Playground
- Hokonui Drive (near the fire station)
- Grace Church, Hamilton Street
- East Gore School in Wentworth Street
- Gore Trout Statue
The water tankers will need to leave periodically throughout the day to be refilled. However, there will always be tankers available in town to ensure continued access to safe drinking water.
The Council acknowledges the inconvenience this issue has caused and appreciates the community’s understanding while precautionary measures remain in place. Public health and safety continue to be its priority.
Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
