Castlecliff water network cleaning has started

We are removing sand and sediment from Castlecliff’s drinking water network using specialist NO-DES mains cleaning filtration equipment after a trial. Work is scheduled across six areas in stages.
If you notice changes to your drinking water, please contact 06 349 0001. The water remains safe to drink.
We’ll share daily updates about the Castlecliff water network on our website and social media.

Find out more and see the daily update

Castlecliff water main issues

Following a water main upgrade in early September 2026, an issue emerged with the Castlecliff drinking water supply. The issue has been intermittent, with some households experiencing sand, sediment or discoloured water.

From Wednesday, 14 October, we have begun a staged programme covering six areas to remove sand and sediment from the Castlecliff water network, following successful trials of specialist filtration equipment, including a trial within the live network. We are using a specialist filtration equipment called NO-DES mains cleaning. NO-DES is a large filter that connects to fire hydrants, takes sand and sediment out of the water, then puts the cleaned water back into the pipes. Drinking water will keep flowing while we work through one area at a time.

If you are experiencing sand, sediment, reduced water pressure, or problems with taps, filters, hot water cylinders or appliances, please contact Whanganui District Council on 06 349 0001 so we can record your details and arrange follow-up support.

Daily community update - Friday, 30 October 2026

NO-DES is working in the following areas today:

Awatea Street
Cornfoot Street
Kamahi Street
Karaka Street
Karewa Street
Kupe Place
Matai Street
Ngaio Street
Tainui Street
Taupata Street
Waitai Street
Waitote Street
Westbourne Terrace

NO-DES will be paused over the weekend. If you have any concerns, please contact us on 06 349 0001, this number is monitored 24/7.

Regular testing shows the water remains safe to drink. We are checking water quality, chlorine and bacteria levels throughout the network and will tell residents immediately if this advice changes.

If your water has sand, sediment or discolouration

Run the outside tap closest to the road for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
If the water does not clear, turn the tap off and call us on 06 349 0001
Do not keep flushing the water or repeatedly run hot water.
Call 06 349 0001 if the water does not clear, you have low or no pressure, or sand or sediment may have affected your plumbing or appliances.
Please contact us before arranging any appliance repairs so we can assess the issue and advise on next steps. If you have already arranged repairs and are seeking reimbursement, you’ll need to provide evidence that the damage was caused by sand or sediment related to the current issue.