Tauranga’s water supply resilience boosted by third treatment plant

People are encouraged to water their gardens either early in the morning or in the evening.

For the first time in three years, Tauranga won’t start summer with seasonal water restrictions.

But that’s not a licence to go wild with the hose.

A Tauranga City Council statement today said that since the $197 million Waiāri water treatment plant started operating in 2022, the city’s water supply has become more resilient and flexible.

It was Tauranga’s third water treatment plant, in addition to those at Joyce Rd and Oropi.

The city’s water is drawn from three spring-fed streams – Tautau, Waiorohi and Waiari.

Water meters were introduced in 2000.

In 2021, the council introduced its Water Watchers programme as part of a plan to manage the water supply year-round.

This had seasonal water-use restrictions that automatically kicked in every November and became stricter in December and January, before easing at the end of March.

Restrictions included bans or time limits on sprinklers, irrigation systems, filling pools and spas (unless granted), high-pressure cleaners and handheld hoses with a trigger nozzle.

The council said the seasonal restrictions would not be needed this summer.

People were urged to “continue to make wise choices about using water”, including watering gardens wisely and regularly checking for leaks.

The Water Watchers programme was transitioning from seasonal restrictions to an emphasis on ongoing, responsible water use, the council said.

“[The] council will continue to monitor water demand and source water stream levels closely, and restriction requirements may be reinstated if necessary.”

Water-saving tips and tricks are available on the council’s Water Watchers website.