Volunteers from South Wairarapa sports and community groups have been putting in the hard yards to read more than 4500 water meters during June to raise money for their respective organisations.
Maggie Forest, meter read co-ordinator for South Wairarapa District Council [SWDC], said the data gathered from the readings is crucial for keeping an eye on the district’s water consumption.
“We are very mindful that drinking water is a precious resource but a lot of it is lost in leaks, and a lot of those leaks are on private property,” Forest said.
South Wairarapa’s water allowance for connected households and businesses is 350m3 – or 350,000 litres – of water per connection every year, which is paid for by rates
SWDC said this is a high allowance, so if a property owner receives a bill showing they have surpassed their allowance with no clear explanation, they could have a leak.
If the property owner has proof of the repaired leak, they may qualify for a fee waiver, the council said.
SWDC is encouraging property owners to educate themselves on where to find their meter, which is with their water toby or shut-off valve.
Meters are usually found on the street, but those with meters on their private property are urged to secure their dogs and ensure the property is safely accessible.
Information on finding leaks and more information about water meters can be found on the council’s website, in the services section under ‘water’.
