Tauranga residents are being urged to think about their water use this summer.

Tauranga City Council councillor Steve Morris says the City Waters team has seen significant spikes in water demands already, making water restrictions likely this year.

'Despite the impression recent weeks may have given, the past few months have been warmer than normal. With more people living in Tauranga and the arrival of summer visitors into the region, water supplies are under pressures,” says Steve.

Tauranga uses an average of 39 million litres of water per day and in summer this can rise to over 55 million litres per day.

Tauranga City Waters manager Steve Burton says earlier spikes in usage and an overall increase in base demand are noted this year.

'We've seen a rapid increase in demand as people start watering their lawns and gardens. We need to be smart in managing water to ensure we can continue to supply drinking water throughout the summer season.”

'We can all do our bit to conserve water. There are simple ways to save water while still taking good care of gardens,” says Steve.

'If you water your garden, do it in the cooler hours of the day to make every drop count. Use a hose rather than sprinklers and use a broom instead of a hose when cleaning down outdoor surfaces.”

Water restrictions were introduced last year for the first time in 17 years. The development of the Waiari water treatment plant will provide relief to the city water supply from 2021.

Steve Morris says that it's about a change in mindset.

'We're making considerable investments to increase water supply capacity, but it's good to be mindful – water isn't an endless resource.”

Other water saving tips:

Fix any drips and leaks in your household – contact the Waterline team for free advice on how to be more water efficient around the home.

Mulch your garden to keep moisture in.

Turn off the tap when shaving or brushing your teeth

Take shorter showers

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