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Town to tank meters

A new type of water service to provide peace of mind to homeowners that rely on rain tanks

Town to tank water connections enable residential homeowners that rely on rain tanks to top up their tanks using the town water supply on an ‘as required’ basis. It gives them total control over their water supply and greater flexibility, meaning they do not have to worry when their tanks run low or when guests come to stay. It removes the need to order water from private water carriers or queue at local water service centres.

Is my property able to connect?

Properties that are eligible are connected to the wastewater network; are close to the public water network; and have rain tanks that hold at least 20,000 litres.

How much will I pay to connect?

Town to tank water connections cost significantly less than a standard water connection because the flow rate is lower. It puts less pressure on the public water network as it is simply a top-up service that can be used when needed. To find out about charges, please click here.

What are my options?

If you have a rain tank, there are several options available to you (see below):

  • Keep your existing rain tank and continue to order top-ups from private water carriers

This is a good option if you rarely run out of water. However, during dry periods, there can be long delays in receiving top-ups from private water carriers due to high demand.

  • Install an additional rain tank

This is a good option if you want to increase your resiliency while remaining self-sufficient. You will need to have the space to accommodate an additional tank.

See Auckland Council’s website for information about resource and building consents and tank suppliers.

  • Get a town to tank water connection

This is a good option if you want to increase your resiliency while remaining self-sufficient most of the time. It’s also a good option if you do not have the space to accommodate an additional tank.

A town to tank connection is designed to top-up your existing rain tank over a few days.

The flow rate is around 2-8 litres per minute.

  • Get a standard water connection

This is a good option if you want a safe, reliable and resilient water supply that requires little ongoing maintenance or effort.

A standard water connection is plumbed directly into your house.

The flow rate is around 25 litres per minute.

To compare this option to the town to tank option, see the price comparison in the 'how much will I pay to connect' section below.


How do I apply?

Applications will be processed on a first in, first served basis. If there is a high demand for these connections, it could affect the processing and installation timeframes. We will give you an indication of the timeframe at the time of application.

What will I need in order to apply?

When you click 'apply now' and access our building development portal, you will need to create an account to track your order.

You will need to provide us with your existing account number which is found at the top of your Watercare invoices.

You will also need to provide us with a drawing which details your preference for the location of your meter. Click here to see a basic sketch.

What will the service look like once installed?

Check out the photos below which will give you an idea of what installation looks like.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a town to tank connection different from a standard connection?
What are the connection and ongoing charges?
What type of water meter and backflow device will be installed?
How do I connect to a town to tank connection?
How do I operate a town to tank connection?
Why does a town to tank connection require a backflow prevention device?

Explore FAQs