Featherston and Greytown will move to Level 2 Water Restrictions at 12.01AM on Monday 17 February 2025, meaning a ban on sprinklers and irrigation systems for residential households.
Martinborough will remain at Level 1 Water Restrictions but Wellington Water will continue to monitor the Ruamahanga River level for the need to move water restriction levels if the dry weather continues.
This decision has been made due to increasing demand on water over the past fortnight and the recent dry weather impact on the Waiohine River levels. If the dry weather continues it is likely that restriction levels in Martinborough will also increase in the next few weeks as the Ruamahanga River reduces further.
The Featherston and Greytown ban applies to all irrigations systems and unattended watering. Residents can still water their garden using a hand-held hose at any time, on any day, so long as they are not left unattended.
“Wellington Water has recommended that Level 2 Water Restrictions are put in place for Featherston and Greytown to help us reduce water demand now and reduce the risk of having more severe, longer water restrictions later on,” says Stefan Corbett, South Wairarapa District Council’s Group Manager, Infrastructure & Community Operations.
“The restrictions apply to residential properties only. However, we do ask that businesses across the district take steps to reduce their water usage where possible. If we all do our bit, then we can hopefully avoid further restrictions.”
Wellington Water will continue to closely monitor the situation and work closely with South Wairarapa District Council regarding the risk of further water restrictions for Martinborough. We will keep the public informed if the situation changes.
“In the meantime, we encourage everyone to make simple changes to reduce their water use,” adds Stefan. “Small changes such as taking shorter showers (no more than 4 minutes), not running the tap while brushing your teeth, and only doing full loads of washing can all make a real difference.”
For more helpful water saving tips, visit Wellington Water’s website: https://www.wellingtonwater.co.nz/resources/topic/water-conservation/water-calculator/
Please note, this change only affects Greytown and Featherston in the South Wairarapa District. This change does not impact metropolitan Wellington residents as South Wairarapa’s water supply and drinking water networks are separate from the metropolitan Wellington region. The metropolitan Wellington region remains at Level 1 Restrictions.
Water Restrictions – what they mean for residents
Level Two
- No irrigation or sprinklers
- Water your garden by hand only at any time so long as it’s not unattended
Level Three
- Stop all outdoor water use.
- Consider using less water indoors
- Businesses encouraged to be pragmatic and responsible
Level Four
- Significantly reduce indoor water use – by up to 50% – to ensure there is enough water for everyone
- Stop all outdoor water use.
- Business to also significantly reduce water use
ENDS
