Water restrictions

Garden watering restrictions apply during daylight saving months (30 September 2018 – 7 April 2019) in Porirua (they also apply in Lower Hutt and Wellington, and are all year-round for Upper Hutt).

These are base-level restrictions and can be increased depending on demand and supply around the region. 

The water restrictions during daylight saving months are:

• either one automatic watering device or one fixed line system (such as a sprinkler, irrigation system, soaker hose or unattended hose) can be used per household, and 
• watering can only be done on alternate days from 6am to 8am and 7pm to 9pm – with even numbered houses on even days of the month and odd numbered houses on odd days of the month.

Hand-held hoses can be used at any time.

At times of drought or water shortage, more specific restrictions may be imposed.

If you have any doubts about the restrictions then please have a look at these Frequently Asked Questions 

We encourage you to find ways to use less water in your gardens during dry periods.  You can do this by using mulch, watering your plants and trees only when necessary, and installing a trigger spray on your hose.

Tips to save water:

• Use mulch to keep soil moist.
  
• Only water your garden when absolutely necessary during cooler times of the day – early morning or late evening. 
  
• Collect water from your shower for watering your garden.
  
• Let your lawn die off, it will come back.

Water use in Porirua City is managed under the Porirua City Council General Bylaw 1991 Part 17 - Water Supply.

The Bylaw applies at all times throughout the year and is enforced particularly during summer and prolonged dry seasons.

Water restrictions are publicly notified in community and regional newspapers, local radio and television as appropriate in each case.