Network Utility Indicators (what we measure)

Overview

Council aims to provide effective and environmentally efficient water, stormwater and sewage reticulation and treatment to meet the needs of our communities. Council provides network utilities to houses and businesses within the district.

Works and network utilities provide services essential to our social and economic well being, and to our health and safety. Other utilities in our district include electricity and telecommunications.

While there are positive effects to infrastructure, works and network utilities may potentially have some negative effects on the community and our environment. These are addressed through resource consent conditions that aim to remedy, mitigate and avoid any adverse effects of activities. There could also be negative social, economic and environmental effects if these works and infrastructure services were not provided.

A summary of our situation;

Water

The total quantity of water being consumed in Matamata-Piako District has increased significantly over the last few years. In the following table a cubic metre (m³) = 1000 litres.

Due to generally mild summers and frequent rain there were no major water shortages in the district from 2000-2006, as restrictions are implemented as required, depending on weather conditions. In 2007/08 and 2008/09 due to extremely dry weather, sprinkler bans were instigated for approximately one month both years. In 2009/10 water restrictions were not required as a result of responsible water use during the dry summer months. In 2010/11 restrictions lasted for three weeks.

The restrictions related to either dwindling raw water sources or short term peak demands during the height of summer. The capacity of the Te Aroha Water Treatment Plant was significantly increased in 2004/05 and a new 5000m3 treated water reservoir was completed in 2006.