29 August 2017
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Glenholme School sewage overflow
Inquiry
Just looking for some comment about the raw sewage overflow at Glenholme School. I understand your guys are out there today cleaning up,
1. How long is it expected to take?
2. What is involved in the clean up (e.g. disinfected etc... or just washed away)
3. Has anything (if possible) been done to ensure the drains don't overflow again?
Response
A sewage overflow occurred at Glenholme Primary School yesterday [Monday], as a result of damage to the sewer main that was caused by heavy rain and on inspection the discovery of a power cable which appeared to have been thrust through the pipe.
Council staff were called out to the school last night to unblock the sewer main. The overflow caused flooding in the toilets of the school hall and in one corner of the school field.
Council workers and contractors have removed the overflow water by sucker truck, followed by two rounds of water blasting and disinfectant treatment on the field and around the hall.
There is no contamination risk, however the flood affected areas of the sports field will be fenced off for about a week. Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service has been notified about the flooding.
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Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Lake levels at Tikitapu and Okataina
Inquiry
I'm doing a story for tomorrow about Lake levels at Lake Okareka and Tikitapu, please see questions below:
1. Speaking with Okareka residents there were concerns about springs popping up under people's houses, have you guys been contacted with these concerns?
2. People don't seem to be too bothered by the high level of Tikitapu (looks quite beautiful actually) but apparently one side of the walkway that goes around the lake is completely submerged and people are having to walk on the road - Have you guys been alerted to this/can you do anything about it?
Response
We're not clear about what's meant by springs but Council hasn't received any calls about anything like this.
Anyone in need of emergency assistance should call 111. Anyone concerned about flooding or in need of welfare assistance should contact Rotorua Lakes Council on 07 348 4199 (24 hours).
Council is aware the lower track around Tikitapu is now under water - this happens occasionally. Signs will be going up advising people that the lower track is closed and directing them to use the roadside walkway which goes all the way to the carpark between the two lakes.
