Water, Weather  |  Yesterday

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Christchurch City Council is asking residents across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula to be mindful of their water use this summer to help keep the water supply network running smoothly.

“Every summer when temperatures rise, we see household water demand rise sharply as people water gardens and lawns,” Christchurch City Council’s Head of Three Waters Gavin Hutchison said.

Making small changes can have a big impact on water use and help you avoid charges  
  • Hold your hoses! Using a handheld hose or watering can use a lot less water. 
  • Water every second day in the early morning or late evening, when it's cool. 
  • Shorten your shower to five minutes or less. 
  • Consider water timers and planting drought-resistant gardens. 
  • Brown is the new green – avoid watering lawns and grass berms. 
  • Spot a leak? Let us know by using the Snap Send Solve app, or contacting us.

“Sprinklers and automated irrigation systems are the biggest culprits – they use far more water than most people realise. 

“The good news is, small changes can make a big difference – avoid using sprinklers where possible and stick to hand-held hoses.  

“Watering early in the morning or later in the evening – before 7am or after 9pm – helps reduce evaporation and saves water. And remember, gardens don’t need watering every day. A few minutes every second day is plenty,” Mr Hutchison said.  

While Christchurch city has a good water supply, the challenge is keeping up with peak demand. 

“When temperatures soar, we struggle to get water through the pipes and into reservoirs fast enough. If reservoirs drop too low, water pressure across the network falls, and that’s a real concern for firefighting capability. 

“If we put water restrictions in place in the city it won’t be because we’re running out of water, it’ll be because we need to ease the pressure on the water supply network. 

Banks Peninsula residents and holidaymakers are being asked to take extra care too. 

“Summer puts real pressure on our smaller stream-led water supply networks in places like Akaroa, Takamatua and Duvauchelle.  

“We’re expecting average or below-average rainfall and strong northwest winds this year, so we need everyone to do their bit. 

“Being thoughtful about how much water you’re using will reduce the chance of water restrictions later in the season. 

“We also have a leak detection programme underway, and residents can help by reporting leaks and checking their own properties. 

“Every litre saved helps keep the system resilient. If we all use water wisely, we can make sure there’s enough water for everyone this summer.” Mr Hutchison said.  
 
For more tips on saving water this summer check out ccc.govt.nz/water-like-oughta