Water meter readings and billing
Council has moved to twice yearly water meter readings and billing. The decision was made in consideration of householders, especially those in our District that have very large water bills. We hope this will help reduce the length of time some leaks go unnoticed. Meters will be read during April/May/June and October/November/December.
The water charges per cubic metre (excluding gst) are:
Western $0.88
Central $0.88
Eastern $0.96
Arrange to pay by direct debit. Download the water billing direct debit form and post it to Council's Rates Team at Barkes Corner, Private Bag 12803, Tauranga 3143. Remember to print and sign both pages.
Terms and Conditions for the Supply of Water
New Water Connection Terms and Conditions and Application form.
Monitoring your water use could save you money!
As your meter is read only twice a year, the cost of an undetected leak can really add up and you could find yourself faced with an unexpectedly high bill.
As the owner, you are responsible for maintaining the water system on your property, so its pays to monitor your system to ensure leaks are picked up early.
Keeping tabs on your water use will help you to keep your costs down, pick up costly leaks early and save precious reserves.
Keeping a monthly record is quick and easy.
If you have a water meter it’s very simple to keep a check. All it takes is a couple of minutes each month to read the meter, make a note of the reading on the chart and watch for any change in usage that could signal a leak.
How to read your water meter
Most water meters measure your water usage in cubic metres (there are 1000 litres in a cubic metre). A few older meters use imperial measurement.
Your meter shows two sets of numbers, the first set of four numbers is in black on white and shows the number of cubic metres used. These are the only numbers you need to record for keeping your monthly note of water use. The second set of three numbers is in red, white or black depending on the type of meter you have and shows the litres. These figures are helpful for picking up changes in water use over a short time, such as the overnight leakage test we recommend.
If your meter is different from the example and you need help reading it, please telephone (07) 571 8008.
Average Water Use
You are likely to use more water in the summer so a small increase around that time should not be a great concern. To give you an idea of average household use:
A two person household usually uses between 10 and 15 cubic metres of water each month.
A five person household may use as much as 25 to 35 cubic metres per month.
Business Use
It is difficult to give an average for water use on farms and other businesses as their water needs vary so greatly. If your business is a high user we recommend keeping a careful monitor of your monthly usage, especially where irrigation is involved, leakage could have major cost implications for you.
Your water account
Your water charges are worked out on a cost per cubic metre of water going through your system.
Water meters are read between March and May and again between October and December each year and the accounts are due for payment a month after receipt.
Checking your water meter readings...
If you have a water meter on your property, it's worth taking the time to keep an eye on the reading. All it takes is a couple of minutes each month to read the meter, record it and watch for any change in use that could signal a leak.
It's worth remembering that fixing water leaks on your property is your responsibility - thanks.
Checking for water leaks
Minor Leaks
A loss of about 1 to 5 litres overnight indicates a minor leak.
Potentially serious leaks
If you seem to be losing water at the rate, say, of 6 litres or more overnight, then you could have a serious leak and should talk to your plumber without delay.
Remember you are paying for the lost water.
If you are concerned about the amount of water you are using or need help to calculate your usage, please telephone Customer Services on (07) 571 8008.