Glad you received your Wollemi Pine. It has certainly been a popular Christmas present. In answer to your questions. The water quality is not too important but, in preference, the spring water should be used if it is no trouble. The amount of chlorintation in tap water will not be toxic for the plants. There is no need to take the wood bark shavings off the top. It is there to prevent weed, moss and algae growth and will come to no harm. I am familiar with the principle of the watering system you have but not the make. Two weeks without water in winter should not hurt the Pine but, as long as the compost is kept moist and not soaked, the system should be fine. Once again, the WP can be killed by kindness in over watering rather than giving too little. Enjoy your Wollemi Pine. I hope you will be very happy together!