Wellington region implements Level 1 water restrictions

Level 1 water restrictions have been implemented in Lower Hutt and Porirua as the Wellington region prepares for increased summer demand. The restrictions took effect at 12:01 am on Sunday, 27 September, coinciding with the start of daylight saving.

Under Level 1 rules, households may use sprinklers and irrigation systems every second day based on their street number. Even-numbered properties are permitted use on even-numbered days, while odd-numbered properties may use them on odd-numbered days. These activities are restricted to the hours of 6 am to 8 am and 7 pm to 9 pm. Handheld devices, such as hoses, may be used at any time provided they are not left unattended.

Tiaki Wai, the region’s water services provider, stated that managing water use early aims to reduce pressure on supplies during hotter and drier periods. Chief Operating Officer Charles Barker noted that the region relies on the Orongorongo, Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt, and Wainuiomata rivers, as well as storage in the Macaskill Lakes and Waiwhetū aquifer.

Authorities are working with Earth Sciences New Zealand to monitor potential El Niño conditions that could lead to a hotter, drier summer. If conditions worsen, the region may move to Level 2 restrictions, which would prohibit the use of sprinklers and irrigation systems entirely.