Late Ohakune water solution put forward

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 8, Issue 373, 12 February 1991, Page 1

Late Ohakune water solution put forward

A "fifth alternative" for Ohakune's water woes solution has been suggested - extending the intake pipe the 2-3 kilometres to the spring which is the source of the water. Extending the pipe, while expensive, could mean avoiding complex and expensive filtration equipment, and possibly even treatment, it was suggested. Waimarino Community Board member Bruce Thompson suggested at last week's meeting that the option be studied. He asked if the spring water had been tested for giardia and filtration properties. Council officer Bruce Dobson said the water tests cost about $300.

"I'm sure the spring runs clean," said Mr Thompson. "I believe the water is being contaminated below the spring." He said if the pipe was extended, 90 per cent of the "rubbish" that is in the water would be eliminated because the run-off from the open land the stream passes through would be eliminated. Mr Dobson said if the spring water was free of giardia as well as cleaner it could simplify the filtration equipment needed. "Do you need any treatment at all if the water is pure at the spring," asked Cr Bill Peach. Mr Dobson said even if the water was pure now there was no guarantee it would stay that way in 2-3 year's time.