The Queenstown Lakes District is one of the biggest water consumers in the country. Photo: 123RF
Residents and visitors to the Queenstown Lakes are encouraged to be wai wise this summer or they could face temporary water restrictions.
Hot and dry weather is forecast over January and February.
The Queenstown Lakes District is one of the biggest water consumers in the country.
On average, each person uses 440 litres per day compared to the national average of 281 litres per day.
Households in Auckland are metered and the average is only 146 litres per person per day.
Queenstown Lakes District Council infrastructure operations manager Simon Mason said water consumption had already started to rise rapidly following the end of winter.
If the council's networks came under strain, it could mean restrictions will be required.
"No one enjoys restrictions around when and how we use water, especially when the heat of summer really sets in. But collectively, small changes in how we use water can have a significant impact on keeping our demand for water in check," Mason said.
"The biggest gains are in when and how we water on our lawns and gardens, making sure water leaks around the home are fixed, and calling council immediately if you spot a water leak in public."
He recommended people water their lawns and gardens between 10pm and 6am to avoid the heat of the day and also to ensure irrigation was targeted and within appropriate volumes.
Even reducing shower time by one minute could save up to 20 litres of water per person, he said.
"Every litre of water we save helps us to reduce our carbon footprint too."
The council is giving away two Bluetooth water timers for home sprinkler and irrigation systems as part of a wai wise summer, and has entry forms and a range of tips on its website.