Water Conservation Initiatives

The Council has reaffirmed a standard of bringing peak water demand per capita down to 400 litres per person per day. The standard will also be used to design the increased water supply/storage capacity for Waikanae, Paraparaumu and Raumati.

The Council will fully explore all methods to reduce peak and average water consumption and will report back in early 2010/11 as part of advancing the preferred supply/storage option. This timing will allow for any adjustments to funding policy to be included in the 2010/11 Annual Plan process, should that be proposed. 

In 2003 the Council appointed a Water Conservation Coordinator who will continue to promote initiatives. This includes the Green Plumber, Green Gardener and the Kapiti Coast Sustainable Home and Garden Show.

Plan Change 75 requires rainwater tanks and greywater reuse (where appropriate) on new properties.

Council is currently developing a Water Conservation Plan that will focus on the following areas:     

1. Education: develop a strong water conservation programme with local schools  

2. Financial Incentives: investigate offering financial incentives to assist residents reduce water use

3. Unaccounted For Water Strategy: improve how Council manages unauthorised connections and extraction, public and private leakage, commercial usage in each water supply network  

4. Bylaw Review: implement a firm but fair water supply bylaw that reflects the precious nature of water  

5. Leadership: Council shows leadership using water efficiently in its buildings, parks and facilities, and by offering expert advice (Green Gardener, Green Plumber, Eco Design Advisor) on water use outdoors and in the home  

6. Technological Innovation: work with local businesses to develop innovative and affordable water efficient products for local residents  

7. Research: investigate best practice models and improve understanding on how and where water savings can be made  

Solutions will be developed within the water supply operating budgets included in the 2009 Community Plan. 

For further information, please contact the Water Conservation Coordinator or the Water Project Manager.