A wastewater overflow has entered Lake Whakatipu along part of the Frankton Arm near Goldfield Heights. The issue was resolved within five minutes of the overflow occurring, but warning signage has been erected on the lakefront in the affected area. Water quality testing is underway and signage will be removed once clear results are returned.

Water restrictions in Queenstown Lakes District

Why are restrictions needed sometimes?

If Queenstown Lakes District residents use water faster than we can source, treat, and supply it, the amount of water in the reservoir will decrease.  

Every local community will have different trigger points for when water restrictions are needed based on the characteristics of their local supply. In general, if water usage is ramping up then the appropriate alert levels will be imposed and adjusted as needed.  

Tips to help save water Get text alerts about restrictions

Water alert levels

We continuously monitor water production vs usage reservoir levels across all our water schemes and alert levels will be lifted once usage drops to an acceptable level, normally coinciding with cooler and wetter weather.  

Knowing your current alert level

You can check your current alert level below, as well as find signage in your local community. We will also notify changes via our Community Text alerts and Facebook page.

Whakatipu Restrictions Map

Upper Clutha Restrictions Map