With water levels dropping in the Pātea River and a period of dry weather forecast, Stratford District Council (SDC) is imposing level 1 water restrictions from Wednesday 18 March 2026 until further notice.

The restrictions will apply to all residential properties using the Stratford, Toko, and Midhirst water supply.

During this time, there will be a total ban on sprinkler and irrigation systems, and unattended hoses. Handheld hoses can be used depending on the house number of the resident.

The following hose restrictions apply:

• Houses with even numbers can use a hand-held hose only on even numbered days; and
• Houses with odd numbers can use a hand-held hose only on odd numbered days.

SDC’s Director of Assets Victoria Araba says, “We’ve had a fair bit of rain this summer and hoped we might get through without needing water restrictions, but river levels are now low and we’re heading into a period of settled sunny weather. We know many people will enjoy the sunny autumn days, but it also means we need to look after the health of our river.”

“Level 1 water restrictions will affect our residential households, but we’re encouraging everyone to do their part and save water wherever they can. Every drop helps.”

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