Rainwater making a comeback in west Auckland

In an effort to save water and become more sustainable, residents of Waitakere city are being encouraged by their council to install rainwater tanks in their homes. By harvesting the rain from the sky, residents will be able to save both money and water – especially during those dry New Zealand winters.

Rainwater can be easily channelled from the roof of a house into a tank, where it can be then used to fill the washing machine or flush the toilet. This can save a household around 50% of its waster usage. The water can also be used for watering the garden or washing the car, though it’s not suitable for drinking or cooking.

Until now the bulky appearance and initial costs of setting up a rainwater tank have put some people off, but the council hopes that slimmer tanks, at a discounted price, and a waiving of the building consent fee will encourage more people to install them.

Rainwater tanks are just one part of a broader water and energy efficiency scheme being promoted by the council, which aims to achieve a 25% reduction in total energy use. Other measures being promoted include water-efficient shower heads, washing machines and toilets, as well as solar water heating. It is hoped that a focus on reduction will prevent the need for another dam to be built in the area, at an estimated cost of $350 million.

The Waitakere City Council is also removing the building consent fee for the installation of solar water heating in an effort to get more people installing them.

For more information contact the Waitakere City Council.