24 Jan 2024

Wellington's water woes: What's the long-term solution?

From Nine To Noon, 9:25 am on 24 January 2024

The capital's into its second week of water restrictions, as the threats of even tougher cutbacks loom.

The capital's water system is run by Wellington Water, which says use across the city is at an all-time high thanks to leaks and high demand.

The shortages had been well signalled, with warnings last year from the Greater Wellington Regional Council that resource consent limits would likely be exceeded and surcharges may be needed for future breaches.

Kathryn speaks to Wellington Water CEO Tonia Haskell about the situation today and how the leaks are being found and fixed.

She'll also talk to Greater Wellington Regional Council Chair Daran Ponter about longer-term plans to handle future dry years.

A leak in the Wellington CBD

Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver