Contractors are working into the night to fix a drinking water pipe that burst on Thorndon Quay in Wellington earlier on Tuesday. Photo: RNZ/Kelvin Anthony
Wellington Water says its crews have now repaired a burst pipe in the central city and water is being restored to all affected properties.
Several buildings in Wellington were without drinking water as contractors worked into the night to fix a burst water pipe in the central city.
Wellington Water notified residents and businesses shortly before 1pm on Tuesday that a water pipe had burst on Thorndon Quay.
In order to carry out repairs, contractors switched off water from 162-202 Thordon Quay, Wellington Water said.
It said the repair process took longer than expected because of the complexity of the excavations and how close they were to other underground infrastructure.
It advised affected residents to run a cold tap for a few minutes to clear any cloudy water or air pockets from their pipes before using dishwashers, washing machines or hot taps.
In an update around 4pm, the water company said the team was making great progress and was on track to complete the repairs, however, it said more people were without water than expected.
"We have received a few reports of loss of service for some residents just outside of the affected area.
"While this was not anticipated, there is a water tanker stationed outside 170 Thorndon Quay, as well as bottled water available for all affected residents."
Around 9pm an RNZ reporter at the site said the work was continuing.
"People are walking with buckets full of water from a water truck in front of Kids & Co.
"(The) Water truck guy says he came after 1pm to provide water to the daycare centre and was supposed to leave after.
"He is still here and has no idea when it will be fixed."
Wellington Water said it would provide an update on its Facebook page when it had more information.
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