West Auckland drinking water affected by algal bloom

In Uncategorized by Luke Willoughby

West Auckland residents complaining of “earthy” tasting water are being offered free bottles of water and told the problem might not be fixed until tomorrow. Watercare began receiving complaints yesterday from residents who are served by the Titirangi reservoirs. Laingholm, Blockhouse Bay and Te Atatu are amongst the affected areas. The odd taste has been caused by hot weather stimulating …

Waikato River in ‘serious decline’

In Uncategorized by Luke Willoughby

A new report has criticised the water quality of the Waikato River, delivering a “hammer blow” to those trying to keep it clean. And the Waikato’s famous river lakes – including Lake Karapiro – face a murky, polluted future due to runoff and nitrogen leaching from the region’s farms. The Waikato Regional Council yesterday released a 20-year snapshot of water …

Troubled waters of the Waikato

In Uncategorized by Luke Willoughby

Scientists are battling for the future health of the country’s longest river – and about how best to share it out. Andrew Stone reports Up close, after it has travelled more than 300km, the Waikato River is so muddy that you cannot see your feet if you are standing just knee-deep beside its banks. Above the current, on a concrete …

Chlorine in tap water linked to increase in number of people developing food allergies

In News by Luke Willoughby

Chlorine in tap water has been linked to the rising number of people developing food allergies, a study has revealed. The chemical, which is used to treat drinking water and is also present in commonly-available pesticides and household items, may weaken food tolerance in some individuals. Researchers found adults with high levels of dichlorophenol – a chemical by-product of chlorine …

Aucklanders, you know you’re drinking the Waikato River

In News by Luke Willoughby

Let me begin at the end. This is me yesterday holding a glass of water from the Waikato River after it’s been through the Watercare treatment plant near Tuakau. I’m standing next to Shayne Cunis, Watercare’s Water Treatment Manager. Shayne has been involved in various battles that Watercare has conducted to try to stop the Waikato River getting even more …