Rainwater Barrels
Two linked barrels capture roof runoff for watering seedlings, pots and productive beds, creating a small stored supply for times when the garden needs it.
Holding water close to where it falls
The Rainwater Barrels sit beside the house at 38 The Parade and collect runoff from the roof.
Rainwater is directed into the first barrel and shared between the two linked containers. It can then be drawn from the lower taps into a watering can or connected hose.
The stored water is particularly useful for seedlings, container plants and targeted watering during drier periods. It reduces some demand on treated mains water and makes practical use of rainfall that would otherwise move directly into the stormwater system.
The barrels provide a modest reserve rather than the garden’s entire water supply. Their value comes from keeping water close to where it falls and making it available for the plants that need it most.
How the system connects
The house roof receives and directs rainfall.
Two linked barrels collect and store the runoff.
Lower taps make the water accessible by watering can or hose.
Stored water supports seedlings, pots and productive garden beds.
Using captured rainfall reduces some demand on treated mains water.
A closer look: a small but useful reserve
The system demonstrates that rainwater harvesting does not need to begin with a large tank or complicated infrastructure.
Even a limited amount of stored water can be useful when it is directed towards young plants, pots and other areas that dry out quickly. The barrels also make water use more visible, encouraging careful decisions about where stored water will have the greatest value.
Secure lids help prevent contamination and keep animals and debris out. The fittings, taps, inlet and overflow need regular checking, while the barrels and connected guttering benefit from seasonal cleaning.
The collected roof water is untreated and intended for garden use rather than drinking.
At a glance
Location: Beside the house at 38 The Parade, Island Bay
System type: Small-scale rainwater harvesting and storage
Water source: Roof runoff
Structure: Two linked storage barrels with secure lids and lower taps
Primary use: Watering seedlings, pots and productive beds
Water status: Untreated and non-potable
Delivery: Watering can or connected hose
Management: Checking lids, taps, fittings, inlet and overflow, with seasonal cleaning
Role in the garden: Targeted watering, water conservation and reducing some demand on mains water
Permaculture principles: Catch and Store Energy; Use and Value Renewable Resources and Services
The Rainwater Barrels show how simple infrastructure can capture a useful resource and hold it close to where it will contribute most.
