Smart Water Use Campaign
In the summer of 2007/08, dry conditions and high demand for water saw Hamilton approach the maximum volumes of water that it could from the Waikato River. Smart Water Use was introduced as a regional campaign to strengthen perceptions of water being a limited and precious resource, and educate and encourage people to conserve water in their day-to-day lives.
As part of Smart Water Use, Hamilton City Council introduced the following Summer Water Conservation Alert Levels based around the city's water consumption. These water alert levels come into effect during the summer months, with changes in levels communicated through radio advertising and signage throughout the city, coupled with local media coverage and internet updates.
The alert level system consists of four water alert levels and associated water restrictions that can be upgraded or downgraded as required, based on factors such as consumption levels, weather forecasts, drought conditions, river levels and annual trends.
SUMMER WATER CONSERVATION ALERT LEVELS
Water Alert Level 1
Sprinkler systems permitted between 6-8am and 6-8pm only.
No restriction on commercial/non-residential properties.
Water Alert Level 2
Sprinkler systems permitted between 6-8am and 6-8pm on alternate days only.
No restriction on commercial/non-residential properties.
Water Alert Level 3
Total ban on domestic sprinklers. Only hand held hosing permitted.
Restriction on outdoor water use for commercial/non-residential properties.
Water Alert Level 4
Total ban on all external non essential water use.
Restriction on all external water use for commercial/non-residential properties.
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