Boil notice
On Thursday Tararua District Council issued a boil water notice for Pongaroa residents. This will remain in force over the weekend for all those connected to the town water supply, who are asked to conserve water where possible. Water should be boiled before using it for drinking [including making sachet juice/drinks], making ice, food preparation, brushing teeth, and preparing infant/toddler formula. People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, pregnant women, and some elderly may be at increased risk and should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers or Healthline via 0800 611 116.
Correction
A story published on May 17 titled ‘Taxpayers’ bill for vacant house’ contained incorrect information supplied by Oranga Tamariki. The agency originally said that, since February 2022, the property’s “total rates expense has been $3076.00”. Yesterday the agency contacted the Times-Age to say that, in fact, “a total of $7156 [excluding GST] has been spent on rates, and $837 [excluding GST] has been spent on upkeep expenses”.
Bus subs
Metlink has advised that Wairarapa Line trains will be replaced with buses for all services between Wellington and Masterton today and tomorrow due to planned maintenance.
Library closed
Featherston’s library will be closed this Saturday due to staff shortages. Online services and book drops will remain available, and other Wairarapa Library Service libraries will be open. For more info visit: wls.org.nz
Train issue
KiwiRail is investigating the cause of a signalling problem that impacted lines across the country yesterday, including all trains departing from Wellington Station. The issues occurred between 10.50am and 11.15am, a KiwiRail spokesperson said, with trains stopping for a while before continuing under manual control.
Matariki
Tararua District Council is advising people that Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nui-a-Rua’s Matariki festival is back for 2024. The festival is taking place on June 7 at 7.30pm at the Dannevirke A&P showgrounds at 310 High St. There will be food stalls and entertainment on site.
