In August, Council lodged a resource consent application with Environment Canterbury to secure a new water source near Bells Pond, Ikawai, for the Lower Waihao Rural Water Scheme.
The scheme has faced intermittent spikes in nitrate levels, including a recent breach of the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV) in December 2024, which led to a temporary ‘cease water consumption’ notice. In response, Council implemented an emergency solution by sourcing water from the Waitaki River, which had significantly lower nitrate levels.
Following extensive sampling and water quality testing, the Bells Pond site was selected for its consistently excellent water quality and very low nitrate traces. The proposed solution includes approximately 4.5 km of new pipework connecting the source to the existing treatment plant, along with minor plant modifications. The current bore will be retained for resilience, provided it remains compliant with Drinking Water Standards.
This approach replaces the previously proposed denitrification plant, offering faster implementation and significantly lower operating costs, ultimately saving ratepayers money.
The milestone reflects strong collaboration with stakeholders including landowners, Morven Glenavy Ikawai Irrigation (MGI), Te Runanga o Waihao, and industry representatives. MGI played a key role in engaging shareholders and shaping the solution.
