If you’ve seen the headlines, you might think washing your car at home could cost you $1,500 or up to $4,000 for businesses. However, that’s not completely true - Auckland Council isn’t coming for you when you’re giving your car a good old Snow Job.
The real message is simple: wash your car responsibly so detergents, oil and grime don’t end up in stormwater drains.
Why Car Wash Runoff Matters?
Even a small driveway wash can carry:
- Road grime and dirt
- Oil, fuel residue, and brake dust
- Cleaning chemicals
If it enters stormwater drains, it flows untreated straight into rivers, streams and the sea - contaminating waterways, harming fish and wildlife, and damaging aquatic habitats. That’s why the council is encouraging a bit of common sense. Official guidance: Vehicle and Equipment Washing: Preventing Pollution
How to Wash Responsibly?
- Wash vehicles on unsealed ground – grass or gravel absorbs water naturally
- If this isn’t possible divert the run-off – use sandbags or barriers to keep water away from drains
- Minimise the amount of water used – use a trigger hose, pressure washer and buckets
Keep It Simple:
Our safe and simple maintenance wash system is an easy step-by-step guide for cleaning, protecting, and maintaining your car safely.
Download it here: 👉 Simple Maintenance Flow Chart
Protect your car and protect Auckland’s waterways using Bowden’s Own.
