Interesting Facts About How New Zealand Uses Water.
The average New Zealand family uses between 250-300 litres of water per person per day. Below is helpful information on your water supply, how to minimise your water bill and conserve water.

Where does the water go on a daily basis?

  • Cooking, drinking and hand washing - 25 litres per person;
  • Bathing - 80 litres per person;
  • Showers - 30 litres per person;
  • Toilet - 3-9 litres per flush (dual flush);
  • Automatic washing machine - 49-100 litres per wash (depending on efficiency of machine);
  • Dishwasher - up to 35 litres per wash;
  • Dripping tap - can waste up to 3640 litres per year (thats more than a bath-full each week).
  • A hose or garden sprinkler - can use between 1000 and 2000 litres per hour.


Conserve Water... and Save Money

How can you save water around the home?

  • When buying new appliances, look for the AAA Water Conservation rating;
  • Make sure dripping taps and leaking pipes are dealt with as quickly as possible;
In the kitchen and laundry:

  • If you have a washing machine or dishwasher, wait until there is a full load, or alternatively, use half-load facilities if available.
In the bathroom:

  • Turn off the tap while you clean your teeth or use a mug of water;
  • Try reducing the amount of water in the bath or, if you have a shower, use that instead;
  • When washing your hands, put the plug in the sink instead of letting the tap run.
  • Use a cistern weight or a brick within the toilet cistern to reduce water when flushing;
  • Switch off auto flush systems at night.
In The Garden: