Water restrictions by district
Water restrictions vary by district based on a variety of factors, including the existing supply of water, atmospheric conditions, access to treatable water and the capacity of treatment facilities and more. We treat each district differently based on how likely they are to require further restrictions.
Current Alert Levels
Find your district’s current water alert level.
Waipā | Matamata-Piako | South Waikato | Waitomo |
Be Water Wise | Alert Level 1 - Te Poi Only. Rest of District - Be Water Wise | Be Water Wise | Be Water Wise |
District Alert Level Map
A current map of alert levels across Waikato districts currently managed by Waikato Waters.
Last updated 23 October, 2026.
What’s changed?
Previous water alert level systems often included four or more levels. Waikato Waters has moved to a three-level system that’s simple and easier to follow.
Alert level guidance
Why are water restrictions in place?
Extreme dry weather, droughts and a lack of rainfall brought on by hot summers and El Niño conditions mean some districts in Waikato will enter periods of water restrictions.
Prolonged periods of dry weather or drought can create uncertainty, and we often don’t know how long they may last. That’s why pre-emptive water restrictions help us plan for future months and effectively manage our supply.
What happens if I don’t follow alert level guidance?
We want residents to treat water like the precious resource it is. During droughts or periods of low rainfall, our goal is to ensure everyone has access to high-quality, clean water for essential use only.
We’d prefer everyone to do their part and help conserve water, but residents who choose not to follow restrictions may receive warnings or a fine of up to $20,000 for breaching water supply bylaws.
Water saving tips
Find water saving tips on the Smart Water website.
How we manage demand during water restrictions
During the various stages of water alert levels, Waikato Waters will manage supply across each district to ensure there’s enough drinkable water for everyone. Great water management begins with our residents knowing how to conserve water and when to use it wisely.
In alert levels where sustainable supply of water is seriously at risk, we may ask commercial operators in the region to reduce their water consumption.