Water Conservation Tips
It’s the little things that make a huge difference when it comes to water conservation. Tararua District Council is encouraging you to do your part with these #10wiseways to conserve water this summer.
Rainwater Collection Systems
What Is a Water Catchment System?
A rainwater harvesting system, also called rainwater collection system or rainwater catchment system is a system that collects and stores rainwater for human use. Rainwater harvesting systems range from simple rain barrels to more elaborate structures with pumps, tanks, and purification systems.
Without a purification system or filtering system this water will be 'non-potable'. The non-potable water can be used to irrigate landscaping, flush toilets, wash cars, or launder clothes, and with purification systems can even be for human consumption.
With water scarcity a pressing problem for many densely populated regions, rainwater harvesting systems can supply households and businesses with water for use in dry seasons and lessen the demand on water reticulation networks.
Water Tanks: What Size and Where To Get Them?
Rainwater tanks may provide all or some of the household’s water needs. We recommend contacting a local rainwater tank supplier to get the right advice on what size and type of tank will best meet your needs on your property. The requirement for whether your tank may need a building consent depends on:
- the size of the rainwater tank
- what you want to use the water for
- your location
You can read up on when a building consent is required here. Alternatively, you can contact our building team.
How Can I Create a Catchment System for Myself?
There are plenty of free resources available online which will help teach you how to build different catchment systems.
Below is a collection of resources. Tararua District Council do not endorse the companies listed and accept no responsibility for the products or services they provide.
Collecting and using rainwater | Smarter Homes
How to set up a rainwater collection system in a small garden | thisNZlife