Water restriction levels

Our water alert system consists of four levels: 

Level 1: Use water sensibly
Water supply is expected to come under pressure. Sprinklers can be used from 6-8am and 6-8pm only. Watering by hand can take place anytime but avoiding the hottest part of the day reduces the amount of water that evaporates which is good for the plants and uses every drop well. Trigger nozzles on hoses are recommended.

Level 2: Water on alternate days
Reduce outdoor water use - the water supply is under considerable pressure and significant savings are required. Sprinklers and garden irrigation systems can only be used on alternate days (even street numbers on even days; odd street numbers on odd days) between 6-8am and 6-8pm only. 

Watering by hand can take place anytime but avoiding the hottest part of the day reduces the amount of water that evaporates which is good for the plants and uses every drop well. Do not leave hoses unattended and use a trigger nozzle.

Level 3: Sprinkler/irrigation ban
At this level, the water supply is under extreme pressure. Take all practical steps to reduce your water use. Hand watering (hoses, watering cans and buckets) should only be used on alternate days between 6-8am and 6-8pm. Sprinklers, garden irrigation systems, unattended hoses, unnecessary water blasting and other water use is banned.

Level 4: Total watering ban
Reduce your water use immediately and stop outdoor water use. At this level the water supply level is critical and Waikato Regional Council restrictions may be applied. All use of water outside the house is banned. Only essential water use is allowed (i.e. drinking and hygiene).

At Levels 1 and 2, the water restriction levels apply to all residential and commercial customers (including schools and childcare centres) on Council water supply, where water is being used for non-core business purposes. For example, using a hand held hose to water a lawn or garden outside a dental clinic, school or café. The core business is providing dental services, education and food – not gardening / landscaping.

At Levels 3 and 4, restrictions apply to all commercial customers regardless of business.

Check out our Water Saving Tips for more ideas on how you can save water.