Current status

The dam is now fully operational, with controlled releases from the reservoir being undertaken to ensure the river flow and quality requirements are met, in accordance with the Resource Consent.

Due to safety, public access to the site is not possible. See the below information about the water releases expected during the current period. You can also sign up to periodic email updates in the form at the bottom of this page.

February – April 2025

With a dry summer and early autumn expected there will be a steady release of water, similar to a modest rainfall.

Through this period, water will be released from both the upper and lower intakes, allowing deep cold water to be blended with the warm water on the reservoir surface, so downstream temperature requirements and Resource Consent requirements can be met.

 To date, the quality of the water discharged has met consent requirements, but there have been periods during the early summer months of higher sediment than normal. This could continue during this current period if there is no decent rain fall and river flow to ‘flush’ the river. We undertake ongoing water quality testing at various points in the reservoir and downstream of the dam to ensure water is safe.

 In April, we will undertake our required annual dam inspection and certification. In preparation for this approximately 5 cubic metres/second will be released in March. This flow is similar to a modest rainfall. In the first week of April we expect to release up to 13 cubic metres/second for the inspection.