Taupo water treatment supervisor recognised

11 May 2015

Taupo District Council's water treatment supervisor has been recognised as the top operator in the industry with a national award.

Richard Kruse was awarded the Water Industry Operations Group Operator of the Year Award in Blenheim at the group's annual conference.

He is the water treatment supervisor for the district's 20 water treatment schemes and played an integral part in the changeover from the old treatment plant on Lake Terrace to the new one.

Council's manager of water and wastewater Kevin Sears said Mr Kruse was committed and passionate about leading his team to be as effective and high-performing as possible. He was part of the original design review team for the new water treatment plant and has been the lead person for the commissioning, ongoing operation and maintenance of the plant, Mr Sears said. We're incredibly proud of Rich and what he has achieved.

Mr Kruse has been with the council for nine years and is currently finishing a Diploma in Water Management.

Mr Sears said Mr Kruse was selected as the winner of the award from a pool of impressive nominees. This is an outstanding achievement and great recognition from industry peers for his excellent work expanding his knowledge and leading his team here in Taupo, Mr Sears said.

The Operator of the Year Award is an acknowledgement of an individual who has stood out in their field. It is open to all members of the Water Industry Operations Group in the water and wastewater treatment and reticulation fields.

As part of the award, Mr Kruse now has the chance to attend a water industry conference in Australia.

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupō District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz