Rakaia's drinking water scheme will be more resiliant to future shutdown and repair disruptions from this month, when three new valves are installed on the infrastructure.

The valves will help to keep water flowing to as much of the town as possible during planned shutdowns, emergency work and future development, by localising affected areas and keeping the water on to the remainder of the town.​

Ashburton Contracting (ACL) will be installing the valves overnight on 10 July, as the work requires the water to be briefly switched off.

Letters have been posted to residents informing them of the planned shutdown.

Receive important notifications about Council work in your area of the Ashburton District straight to your mobile phone, by texting your postcode to '4196'.​​