Central Otago District Council's water services team are investigating a leak in the water pipe that supplies Ophir, which has affected water supply into the town’s mains.

A temporary pipe and fill point has been set up in Ophir and water is being pumped into the reticulation by tanker. Up to eight tanker loads will be required to fill the system.

Water is already reaching some households and the temporary measure is expected to restore a water supply to the rest of the township. However, water pressure will be lower than normal.

Ophir and Omakau are under a boil water notice. Naseby residents and visitors are also being urged to conserve water as much as possible. A tanker is filling the Naseby reservoir to try to keep up with demand.

The water issues follow heavy periods of rainfall and rising river levels in Central on Tuesday.