25 March

Northland Region Corrections Facility knew it was only a matter of time before water restrictions came into force for Kaikohe, and their forward thinking has been appreciated by the local fire brigade.

Water use for activities such as water-blasting, watering lawns and gardens (except with grey water) and washing cars, windows, houses, decks and pathways with anything other than a bucket, among other things, have been restricted in Kaitaia, Kaikohe, Opononi, Omapere, Kawakawa, Moerewa and Rawene as drought conditions intensify and river levels drop.

“Our work at the prison is essentially about keeping the community safe,” says Acting Prison Manager Chris Gisler.

“The Fire Service are also in the business of community safety, and with water shortages and fires across the district we thought an extra water supply might be helpful. As such, we have shut off the sluice gate at the prison to allow water to be dammed. We are only too pleased to do anything we can to help.”

Recently the site has also looked at ways they could save water without this impacting on hygiene or the humane treatment of prisoners and implemented those which are feasible. This includes the use of hoses by prisoners being restricted, unit cleaning water use being monitored closely, gardens (with the exception of the vegetable garden that grows produce for the local community) ceasing to be watered.

“We wanted to make sure that the water used at the prison is used wisely and not wasted,” says Mr Gisler.

The Far North District Council have said it is essential for people in affected communities to cut water use by 20 per cent.
Those who refuse and continue carrying out prohibited activities may have their water supply restricted or be liable for a fine of up to $20,000 upon conviction.

Chief Fire Officer for the Kaikohe Fire Brigade, Bill Hutchinson says the prison’s initiative in damming the water is really useful and they are grateful for the help.

"Local streams are beginning to dry up quite considerably to the point we can no longer get water from them which is worrying. The prison’s proactive approach to assist with this situation means that we have another water source to draw from for firefighting use if required. This allows us to reduce the take from the Kaikohe town supply which in turn helps the Far North District Council, so we are really appreciative of their effort."

ENDS

Note to journalists – for further information contact the Communications Services Desk by phone (04) 460 3365 or email: commdesk@corrections.govt.nz.

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