The following tips will help you to achieve this goal.
Small steps
If possible, wash the car on the lawn
Washing the car on the lawn waters the grass and stops detergent going down stormwater drains.
Medium steps
Fix leaking taps
A leaky tap that drips every second can waste 10,000 litres of water a year. This can usually be easily fixed by changing a washer and for hot water, can save $20 - $30 per year on your power bill.
Capture rain water in a rain barrel for watering the garden and washing cars
A
rain barrel in the garden requires no extra plumbing, and some come with a tap for a hose connection.
Choose plants that suit your local climate and soil conditions to reduce watering
This minimises watering needs. Native plants are best adapted to New Zealand conditions.
Use mulch on the garden to reduce watering
Make a
water friendly garden by mulching around plants or digging mulch into the soil surface to hold water near the plant roots in dry weather.
Consider attending a Sustainable Living course
Sustainable Living courses are offered throughout the country and provide practical methods and tips to living sustainably in your home. Some of the topics include: transport, organic gardening, saving water and shopping choices. To find out more, and where your closest course is visit
Sustainable Living evening courses and introductory workshop sessions.
