FenceTank Case Study: Forrest Hill, Auckland
Project Overview
Location: Forrest Hill, Auckland
Water Use: Reuse & Detention
System capacity: 7,000 litres
FenceTank Colour: Slate Grey
Turning a Boundary Fence into 7,000 Litres of Water Storage
Project Summary
When a Forrest Hill homeowner needed to replace an existing boundary fence and water tank, the available space presented an opportunity to combine both functions within a single solution.
Watersmart installed seven 1,000-litre FenceTanks along the property boundary, creating a new fence while providing 7,000 litres of rainwater storage. By integrating the tanks into the boundary itself, the project avoided the need to find additional space for a conventional standalone tank.
The Challenge
The homeowner had removed their existing water tank and wanted to increase the property’s rainwater storage without sacrificing valuable outdoor space.
The project also required patience before installation could begin, as the homeowner needed to secure an exemption from Council. Watersmart remained available throughout this process, answering questions and continuing to support the project as it progressed.
After two years of discussion and follow-up, the long-term opportunity was approved and ready to move forward.
The Solution
Watersmart removed approximately 14 metres of existing fencing and prepared the boundary for the new installation. This included installing fence posts and constructing a concrete slab to provide a stable base for the tanks.
The completed system included:
Seven 1,000-litre FenceTanks
Seven FenceTank post kits
One FenceTank detention kit
One gravity-feed tap
Installed side by side, the tanks now form the property boundary while collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
The Outcome
The completed installation provides the homeowner with 7,000 litres of rainwater storage without requiring a separate tank area elsewhere on the property.
By giving the boundary fence a second purpose, the project makes better use of the available space while supporting more sustainable household water management. It demonstrates how rainwater storage can be incorporated into residential properties where space is limited, without compromising the practical needs of the site.
Watersmart’s Role
Watersmart managed the project from preparation through to installation, including:
Removing the existing fence
Preparing the site and concrete tank base
Installing the new fence posts
Supplying and installing the FenceTank system
Adding detention and gravity-feed components
Supporting the homeowner throughout the Council exemption process
