Water bores and casings

By John Pfahlert, CEO, Water New Zealand

THE HAVELOCK NORTH water inquiry highlighted widespread systemic failure in our drinking water system. Water suppliers should now be aware that so called “secure” bore water status is not so secure, and that there need to be changes to how we abstract and use groundwater.

What’s been less publicised following the release of the report has been the findings around the construction and maintenance of bores and casings. The inquiry identified a number of problems with current practice and has recommended a comprehensive review of NZS4411 – the environmental standard for drilling of soil and rock.

This coincides with separate discussions involving Water New Zealand and the New Zealand Drillers Federation.  Read full article