Everything You Need to Know About Rainwater Tanks: Your Questions Answered

TLDR: Thinking about installing a rainwater tank? Rain Reserve answers all your top questions—from council consents and tank sizing to installation and maintenance. Learn how rainwater harvesting can boost your water security, save money, and support sustainability with a tank built for New Zealand conditions.

As New Zealand faces increasing water security challenges, more homeowners are turning to rainwater harvesting as a practical solution. At Rain Reserve, we're passionate about helping Kiwis become more self-sufficient and environmentally responsible with their water usage. We've compiled answers to the most common questions we receive about rainwater tanks to help you make informed decisions.

Navigating Consent Requirements

Do I need resource consent to install a water tank?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions, and understandably so! The answer depends on several factors including your property's zoning, the proposed location of your tank, and its height.

In some situations, you'll need resource consent, particularly if:

• The tank will be positioned close to your property boundary

• The tank exceeds certain height restrictions

• Your property is in a special zone with specific requirements

We strongly recommend checking your local council's website for specific guidelines. For Auckland residents, there's good news—the Auckland Council has temporarily removed resource consent fees for rainwater tank applications to encourage installation during water shortage periods. You can find the rainwater tank assessment form on the council's website, and Auckland Council offers a helpful online tool to check if you need consent.

Sizing Your Tank Correctly

What size tank do I need?

This is where our expertise at Rain Reserve becomes particularly valuable. We assess several key factors to recommend the ideal tank size for your needs:

• The size of your section

• Your available catchment area (roof size)

• Your intended water usage

For Auckland homeowners looking to supplement their existing water supply—perhaps for garden irrigation and outdoor use—we typically recommend tanks in the 1,000 to 5,000 litre range.

Our full range includes tanks from 1,000 litres up to 30,000 litres and beyond, ensuring we have the perfect solution regardless of your requirements.

Installation Considerations

Can I install a rainwater tank myself?

While DIY installation is possible for those with reasonable plumbing skills, many of our customers opt for professional installation for peace of mind.

A competent DIY enthusiast could complete the installation over a weekend, but our network of recommended professionals can often complete the job more efficiently and ensure compliance with local regulations.

At Rain Reserve, we have partners who professionally install your water tanks—simply let us know your preference.

Common Technical Questions

Will water storage tanks freeze in winter?

This is a concern we hear often, especially from customers in colder regions like Central Otago. The good news is that our tanks are designed to withstand New Zealand's diverse climate conditions.

Even in areas that experience sub-zero temperatures, the large volume of water in your tank acts as a thermal mass that resists freezing. It would require an extremely prolonged period of severe sub-zero temperatures to freeze a well-designed rainwater tank—something that rarely occurs in most parts of New Zealand.

How do Rain Reserve water tanks work?

Our rainwater harvesting systems operate on a simple yet effective principle:

1. Rainwater is collected from your roof

2. This water is diverted from your downpipes into your Rain Reserve tank

3. The stored water can then be accessed via a pump system for household use or through gravity feed for garden irrigation

   
   

Why are water tanks typically elevated?

Elevation creates water pressure through gravity—the higher the tank, the greater the natural water pressure for delivery to your home or garden. This can reduce or even eliminate the need for pumps in some applications, creating a more energy-efficient system.

Our team can advise on the optimal positioning for your specific property and needs.

Why are Rain Reserve tanks circular?

There's solid engineering behind the circular design. Round tanks distribute water pressure evenly across the structure, creating superior strength and durability compared to rectangular designs. A square tank would require extensive internal bracing to prevent bulging, making circular tanks more economical and reliable.

Reliability and Maintenance

Are water tanks prone to problems like explosions or leaks?

Rain Reserve tanks are engineered for safety and longevity. While theoretical issues like leaks are possible with any water containment system, our quality construction makes such occurrences extremely rare. We've never had a report of a tank "exploding" in our company history—such dramatic failures simply don't occur with properly manufactured modern tanks.

The most common issues are typically related to incorrect plumbing connections rather than the tanks themselves, which is why professional installation is worth considering.

Can water tanks be repaired?

Yes, our high-quality polyethylene tanks can be professionally repaired if necessary. The durable plastic material can be welded if damage were to occur, though this is seldom needed thanks to their robust construction.

Ready to Enhance Your Water Security?

At Rain Reserve, we're committed to helping New Zealanders achieve greater water independence through quality rainwater harvesting solutions. Whether you're looking to reduce your environmental footprint, prepare for water restrictions, or simply save on water bills, our team is ready to guide you through selecting and installing the perfect system for your needs.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you take control of your water future with a Rain Reserve tank tailored to your property and requirements.