24 Jan 2011

'Smelly' water angers Woodville residents

6:50 pm on 24 January 2011

Residents of Woodville in the Tararua District say they're fed up with having to wash in and drink what they describe as smelly water.

Locals say tap water smells like mouldy laundry with a strong musty odour.

Former district councillor Ian Bailey says the problem has been going on for years and occurs when the normal river supply from Mangapapa Stream is low and water has to be drawn from a stagnant back-up dam.

Mr Bailey says the water supply needs serious attention.

Tararua district mayor Roly Ellis says the situation is not good enough and a meeting will be held about what to do about the problem on Tuesday.

Mr Ellis says it will be an expensive problem to fix, but is a top priority.