Dam levels and water supply

We draw water from nine raw water sources throughout the District. There is a limit on how much can be drawn at any one time.

While the District's water supply can sufficiently meet our needs in years with normal rainfall, we have conservation measures in our contingency plan to manage our water supply during drought.

Conserving water

Our two main storage reservoirs at Whau Valley and Wilsons Dam ensure continuous supply during prolonged dry spells.

Two other dams, the Gomez Dam at Hikurangi and Takahiwai Dam at Ruakākā, are not currently in use.

Whau Valley Dam holds 1,871,286 m³ of water and supplies Whangārei City and its surrounds.

The catchment area also has recreational value and management of it is included in our reserve management plan for Pukenui Forest - Ngahere o Pukenui Reserve.

Pukenui Forest - Ngahere o Pukenui Reserve

• Boating or swimming is not authorised.
• Fishing is allowed with a licence. Fishing licences are handled via Fish and Game NZ. 
  Fishing licence information (fishandgame.org.nz)
• Dogs must be kept on a leash as young kiwi have been released into the area.
• Do not let dogs into the water.

Wilsons Dam holds 2,491,730 m³ of water and supplies the Bream Bay area. 

• Boating or swimming is not authorised.
• Fishing is allowed with a licence. Fishing licences are handled via Fish & Game NZ.
  Fishing licence information (fishandgame.org.nz)
• Dogs must be kept on a leash as young kiwi have been released into the area.
• Do not let dogs into the water.

The water levels in our reservoirs rise and fall through a normal year. The quantity of water, together with the time of year are used to calculate the 'Alert' level.

If the alert colour moves from green to amber or red, we will update this website with any measures or restrictions that are put in place.

Our Water Testing Laboratory at Kioreroa Road offers testing services and provides information for private customers who have concerns about the quality and safety of their drinking water.

Water quality and testing

At present none of the water treatment plants in Whangārei add fluoride to the public water supply.