Last week Tauranga City Council reminded residents to "be wise when watering gardens” following 28 days without rain.
But early this afternoon contractors working on a highly controversial urban space were seen water blasting and watering plants.
The council says water restrictions are important and apply to everyone in Tauranga, but “obviously, this wasn’t the case today".
“We have spoken to the contractor to reinforce the importance of the ban and will monitor going forward," the council said.
Current restrictions include hosing concrete or paved surfaces. Sprinklers and irrigation systems are also banned.
However, watering by hand is permitted from 5am to 8am and 7pm to 10pm.
This breach follows a raft of criticism over the new space, with many locals unhappy with the name (Te Papa o Nga Manu Porotakataka), the design and its lack of shade.
1 NEWS understands the project is one of many under review by the council's new chief executive, Marty Grenfell.
Anyone who observes water leaks or breaches of water restrictions can phone (07) 577 7000.
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