GW calls for careful water use

Greater Wellington is asking households to be careful with water use this summer as part of its annual water conservation campaign, which kicks off this weekend.

"Last year the region's four cities had to impose a ban on sprinklers and irrigations systems - with your help, we hope to avoid a repeat this summer," says Greater Wellington's Parks, Forests and Utilities Committee Chairman Rex Kirton.

Water use in Lower Hutt, Porirua, Upper Hutt and Wellington generally increases in January when people return from their summer holidays. It can rise by 50 million litres - about a third more than an average day - on fine summer days following a week or two of no rain, with most of the extra water going on gardens.

Cr Kirton says that fortunately it's fairly easy for householders to cut back, while still taking good care of their plants. "Just follow a few simple steps in the garden and you'll help to make a difference."

• Use mulch to help retain moisture in the soil
• Check that your soil needs water before turning on the tap
• Water slowly - so it gets absorbed - and only water around your plants' roots
• Time any sprinkler sessions to 30 minutes - once a week should be enough

More water conservation tips and the chance to win one of 10 water smart prize packs worth $300 each can be found on Greater Wellington's ‘Be the Difference' website www.bethedifference.gw.govt.nz.  The prize packs include a programmable water timer with a linked moisture detector (which will override the timer if there is enough moisture in the soil) and a seep hose.

Greater Wellington's water conservation campaign is supported by the Hutt, Porirua, Upper Hutt and Wellington city councils. Each city currently has restrictions in place for watering. Restriction details are published in local newspapers or residents can contact their city council to find out more.