Warmer weather and increasing water demand has prompted Hamilton to move to Alert Level 2 today to help conserve water.

This change to Alert Level 2 means sprinklers and watering systems can only be used on alternate days (eg even street numbers on even days; odd street numbers on odd days) between 6- 8am and 6- 8pm, while hand-held hosing can still be done any time.

Hamilton City Council City Waters Manager Maire Porter says a significant increase in water usage combined with consistently high temperatures has prompted the move to Alert Level 2.

“Our residents have done a great job with water conservation so far this summer, but as people return from holiday and with the warm settled weather we have seen a steady increase especially with outdoor water usage. With more warm weather on the way we need to ensure there is enough water for everyone.”

Ms Porter says outdoor water use is the biggest contributor to increased water demand in summer.

“On average a sprinkler left on for an hour will use more than 1000 litres of water. Moving to Alert Level 2 and abiding by these simple watering rules will help conserve our city’s water supply and give us a better chance of getting through the rest of the summer without the need for further restrictions.”

Ms Porter says everyone can make small changes to their water usage which can save a lot of water each day.

“Simple things like watering the garden by hand, taking shorter showers, not leaving the tap on when you’re brushing your teeth or washing your car on a piece of lawn can also make a difference and will save hundreds of litres a day.”

Ms Porter also encourages residents to report any water leaks and people not being smart with water by using the Smart Water website water concern form: http://www.smartwater.org.nz/water-concern-form

Residents of Tauwhare, Gordonton and Matangi are also now on Alert Level 2 as their water is supplied by Hamilton City Council. Te Awamutu and Pirongia remain on Alert Level 1.

The Smart Water site has an e-newsletter to let you know when your area’s alert level changes. Sign up at smartwater.org.nz/subscribe.

For more information and water saving tips visit www.smartwater.org.nz

The Smart Water Starts with You! sub-regional summer campaign aims to make long-term change to how we use water and is a joint venture between Waikato District Council, Hamilton City Council, and Waipa District Council.

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