Wellington Water is seeing more people publicly expressing frustration at staff.

Kevin Locke, Customer Operations General Manager, told Newstalk ZB there's an increased number of reports of frustrated comments, feedback, and even verbal abuse.

"These range from straight forward comments and feedback to verbal abuse and, in the most serious instance, a police report has been made," he confirmed.

A police report was made on one instance.

Wellington Water says incidents like these have an impact on staff who are trying to do the best they can.

"Our hard-working crews take pride in the work they do and are driven by the difference it makes to our community, which is often their local community. They’re working around the clock, and we’re proud of their commitment and mahi," Locke added.

Wellington Water acknowledged it can be frustrating to be asked to conserve water - it's asking those with concerns to reach out to their customer team.

"This means our crews can focus on the job at hand, and your feedback gets to the right place."

Police have been contacted for comment.