Our $5.4m Takapuna wastewater pipe upgrade set to improve beach water quality

9/05/2022

We are kicking off a $5.4m wastewater pipe upgrade in Takapuna that will significantly reduce wastewater overflows and improve beach water quality.
 
Project manager Johan Gerritsen says work to reline the 1.6 kilometre wastewater pipe that runs the full length of Takapuna Beach will start this month and is expected to run through to August.
 
“This pipe was built in the 1940s and recent investigations have confirmed it’s in urgent need of an upgrade.
 
“By relining this section of the pipe we’ll extend its life by 50 years and significantly reduce wastewater overflows in the area.
 
“We’re making every effort to minimise disruption for the community while we carry out this critical work. We’ll be using trenchless technology that lines the pipe with PVC instead of open-trenching, so we won’t be digging large trenches or closing roads. It’s also faster, cheaper and has a lower carbon footprint.”
 
Some work sites will need to be fenced off to protect people’s safety. In some locations, parts of the park and beach access may be temporarily blocked, along with the boat ramp.
 
“Before the relining work can begin, we’re inspecting the pipeline and manholes to check for any obstructions or blockages, Gerritsen says.
 
“As part of this project we’ll also be assessing the condition of 36 manholes and carrying out any repair work needed.
 
“The wastewater pipe will still be in service while we carry out the relining work – another benefit of the trenchless method we’re using. As manholes will be open while we operate the device that lines the pipe, there may be some odours, but please bear with us while we carry out this important work.”
 
The work also requires access to a number of private properties along the route and we are working closely with affected residents.
 
We will be carrying out ongoing environmental monitoring for a six-month period after project completion to identify any further issues that might be contributing to overflows or beach water quality, working closely with Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters team.
 
Relining work will start at Hauraki Rd, heading north towards Earnoch Ave.