Water restrictions

During daylight saving or in times of drought our use of water is restricted.

UPDATED 27 February, 2023

After a wet summer, we're back down to level 1 for water restrictions.

This means if you live in an even numbered house, you can use sprinklers or irrigation systems only on even numbered days between 6-8am and 7-9pm. If you live in an odd numbered house, the same rules apply for odd numbered days.

More information: Water restrictions

UPDATED 26 January, 2023

As of this date the Wellington region is under Level 2 water restrictions. Limit outdoor water use. Handheld watering of gardens and lawns only. Sprinkler and irrigation systems are not permitted.

UPDATED 26 September 2022

The Wellington region is under Level 1 water restrictions now daylight saving has come in. This will last until at least April 2023.

Water Restriction Level 1 - Use sprinklers every other day

If you live in an even numbered house, you can use sprinklers or irrigation systems only on even numbered days between 6-8am and 7-9pm. If you live in an odd numbered house, the same rules apply for odd numbered days. 

You can use handheld watering devices any time, on any day, so long as you don’t leave them unattended.

For more information, check the water restrictions page at wellingtonwater.co.nz

There is a ban on residential sprinkler and irrigation use from midnight tonight (12 February) in Porirua. Hand-held watering can still be carried out. More info 👇💦💦

Posted by Porirua City Council on Thursday, February 11, 2021


🚨This will take effect from 26 September 2022.🚨

👉 You can use handheld watering devices any time, on any day, so long as you don’t leave them unattended.

Alternate day watering still applies - even numbered properties on even numbered dates and odd numbered properties on odd numbered dates.

For water saving tips, please visit: www.watcheverydrop.nz


Help use less water

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 restrictions bylaw

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.


Recommended pages:

You can find out more about watering restrictions and conservation.