Test results for the Rototuna water supply zone and other key testing sites around the city are clear for the second day in a row, following a single positive test on Saturday 4 October showed the presence of E.coli in the water reservoir that supplies the zone.
Hamilton City Council has confirmed the boil water notice for parts of northeast Hamilton, and Gordonton and Puketaha in Waikato District, will stay in place until at least tomorrow (Tuesday 7 October), or until three consecutive days of clear test results.
Residents in north-east Hamilton are still being advised to continue boiling tap water before drinking.
Maire Porter, Hamilton City Council’s Three Waters Unit Director, explains the majority of the many strains of E. coli are harmless, however, its presence is an important warning for her team to investigate further.
“The E.coli test we (and other water suppliers) use for our routine monitoring doesn’t distinguish between harmless and harmful strains. Instead, it just tells us whether any E. coli is present — because its presence signals there may be contamination.
“Two clear test results are a good sign we’re heading in the right direction; however, it’s important residents continue to take precautions and boil their water until we lift the boil water notice. This will be done in consultation with Taumata Arowai, New Zealand’s drinking water regulator.”
Residents in Rototuna and some surrounding suburbs are advised to boil water before using it for:
- drinking (including making of sachet juice/drinks)
- making ice
- food preparation
- brushing teeth
- preparing infant/toddler formula.
Babies, young children, the elderly and people who have compromised immune systems may be at increased risk. If you have specific health concerns, contact Healthline 0800 611 116 for free advice, or your doctor.
For further information and updates, go to www.hamilton.govt.nz/boil-water-notice-for-rototuna.