Installing Water Meters in Whangaparaoa: Everything You Need to Know

At Betta Plumbing & Gas, we’re getting a lot of questions from local residents about water meters and the upcoming changes to wastewater charges from Watercare. With bills on the rise from July 1, many households are exploring ways to only pay for what they actually use and installing a water meter is a great place to start.

Fixed Wastewater charge is 3 x more expensive when you don't have a meter installed (each year!).

If your home is connected to the public wastewater system but your main water source is a rain tank or bore, this blog will help you understand how switching to a volumetric wastewater charge works and whether it’s right for you.

Why Consider a Water Meter?

If your water comes from a tank or bore, you’re currently being charged a fixed wastewater rate — even though you’re not using mains water. A rain tank meter lets you switch to volumetric charging, which means:

• You’re billed based on how much water you actually use

• You’re no longer penalised for living in a large household or having many people on your property

• You’ll be able to monitor your usage and spot leaks early

Is It Worth It Financially?

Many Hibiscus Coast households will benefit from the switch, especially if you're water-conscious or live alone. While the fixed charge stays the same regardless of usage, the volumetric model includes:

• A fixed portion (for network maintenance)

• A volumetric portion (based on your metered usage)

You’ll still receive a monthly bill from Watercare, but if your household uses less water, you’ll likely see long-term savings. To find out how much you might save, we recommend contacting us for a free quote and consultation.

What Does Installation Involve?

We’ll take care of the whole process:

• Site assessment – We’ll inspect your rain tank setup.

• Meter installation – We use the Elster Kent water meter, as required by Watercare.

• Compliance – We ensure the meter is installed in the correct location, following Watercare’s terms.

  
  

It’s not a big job for a qualified plumber. Most installations are completed in just a few hours, with no major disruption. We have been installing water meters in Whangaparaoa for years.

Note: Rainwater tanks and household plumbing are private systems. The meter and your plumbing remain your responsibility after installation.

What’s the Process?

Here’s how to get started:

• Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

• We’ll supply and install the approved Elster Kent meter.

• Complete the Watercare Rain Tank Water Meter Application Form.

• Submit it via post or email to Watercare for approval.

• Once approved, Watercare will switch you to the fixed/volumetric charge model.

Watercare approved wastewater meter

You may need to wait up to two months to receive your first metered bill, depending on the meter reading cycle in your area.

What Will My Bill Look Like?

Your Watercare bill will have:

• A fixed charge, like always

• A volumetric charge, based on how much rainwater flows through your meter

Watercare alternates between actual readings and estimates based on past usage. It may take a few months for the bill amounts to stabilise as they collect data for estimates.

Who Maintains the Meter?

You do. As the homeowner, you are responsible for protecting the meter from damage and maintaining the system if leaks or faults occur

We’re always available to help if you need support, advice, or repair work on your private plumbing network.

Does This Apply for Water Meters on the Hibiscus Coast?

Yes – Watercare’s wastewater network covers most of Whangaparaoa and surrounding suburbs. However, we’re happy to confirm your eligibility and advise on your options during your free consultation.

Not Sure If It’s Right for You?

If you’re wondering whether switching is worthwhile, ask yourself:

• Do I use less water than an average household?

• Am I trying to reduce my water bill?

• Do I want better visibility of my water usage?

• Am I willing to maintain a water meter and submit paperwork?

If you answered yes to most of those, then volumetric charging could be a smart financial move.

📞 Ready to Get Started?

We’re your local experts in rain tank metering and Watercare compliance. Whether you want advice, a free quote, or a full installation - we’ve got you covered.

👉 Call us at 022 471 9055

📧 Or email us to book your free assessment today - info@bettaplumbing.co.nz

Let’s make sure you’re only paying for the water you actually use.