Following a straight run of 28 days without rain, and what looks like more dry, sunny weeks ahead of us, Tauranga City Council is reminding people to continue to be wise when watering their gardens.

The initial response to the announcement of water restrictions on 30 January was positive. With the continued dry spell, water use is steadily on the rise again - a trend that isn't sustainable.

Tauranga City Council City Waters Manager, Steve Burton, said this is the longest dry spell in at least 30 years and it's vital that everyone continues to be thoughtful of conserving water.

‘If everybody does their bit, there's enough water to go around. If we can manage this together, we can avoid more stringent restrictions.'

The current water restrictions mean:

• All garden sprinklers and irrigation systems are banned
• No hosing of concrete or paved surfaces such as paths and driveways
• Careful watering by hand is permitted between 5am and 8am, and 7pm and 10pm.

Highlighting the current trend is the graph.

'Its great to see so many residents are observing the restrictions and have turned off their sprinklers. When your neighbour doesn't seem to be aware, please let them know about the restrictions. Spreading the word will help us get through.” Mr Burton said.

Should water use continue to increase, the next level of restrictions would involve a hose ban. Water reserves need to be maintained to ensure there is enough for emergency situations including firefighting.

Council staff have also contacted some major water users, encouraging they too do their bit.

To report water leaks or breaches of water restrictions, phone 07 577 7000.

For more information, visit www.tauranga.govt.nz/savingwater