Hamilton asked to urgently conserve water
Hamiltonians are asked to conserve all non-essential water use after rising Waikato River levels may affect the stability of the slip-affected Eastern Bulk Water Main.
Hamilton City Council staff are monitoring the Eastern Bulk Water Main site and there is the possibility that we may isolate (shut down) the Eastern Bulk Water Main as a precautionary measure due to rising river levels.
City Waters Unit Manager Maire Porter says residents can assist by conserving water for at least the next three days.
“Conserving all non-essential water is the best way for us to be able to manage supplying the whole city through one bulk water main if we need to. Easy ways to save water are taking shorter showers, turn off the tap when you’re brushing your teeth and refraining from using sprinklers or any outdoor water use,” says Mrs Porter.
“If a planned isolation was implemented today, we believe the impact on the city’s supply overnight would likely be similar to the events of 3 February, when we had some pressure loss issues but no loss of service for households.
“Regular updates will be on the Council’s website and Facebook page, however it would help get the message out if people can let their friends and neighbours know.”
The Eastern Bulk Water Main supplies around 27,000 homes and runs under the Waikato River from the city’s water treatment plant opposite Hamilton Gardens. A substantial section of the riverbank collapsed around the Bulk Main in early February.
The isolation of the bulk main will ensure all water is safe and will minimize any impact on the wider community.
What workplace change would you like to see most?
This coming Monday is Labour Day in New Zealand. This public holiday marks when the eight-hour workday and 48-hour workweek became law in 1899. The idea started with Samuel Parnell, a carpenter in Wellington, who in 1840 refused to work more than eight hours a day. Since skilled workers were in short supply, his employer had to agree.
As more skilled workers arrived, employers tried to change working conditions, but Parnell and others kept pushing for better rights. In 1890, Parnell led a Labour Day parade of 1,500 people to promote the eight-hour day. He passed away shortly after, and nine years later, Labour Day became an official public holiday.
Do you feel that we have reached the ideal in working environments yet? What rights are you passionate about relating to employment? Share your thoughts!
Six tips for improving security around your home
1) Improve outdoor lighting
Ensure that streets, driveways, and front yards are well-lit. Motion-sensor lights around homes deter trespassers by reducing hiding spots and illuminating their movements.
2) Trim your trees
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide cover for intruders. Keeping them well-trimmed around windows and doors improves visibility and reduces potential hiding spots.
3) Secure Entry Points
Ensure doors, windows, and gates are always closed when you are away from the house. Upgrade to more secure locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added protection.
4) Add a security camera
Place security cameras in the main entry points to your home. Doorbell cameras are also relatively cheap and a great way to keep track of who is visiting your home when you aren't there.
5) Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
You could reach out to members on Neighbourly to form a group of neighbors who can regularly keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it. You could also check with Neighbourhood Support to see what is existing in your area.
6) Introduce yourself to your neighbours
The closer you are to your neighbors, the more likely they’ll notice when something unusual or suspicious is happening around your property
Feel free to share anything that you do around your area to deter crime.
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.