Watercare invests in protecting the health of Te Weiti/Wade River 

Watercare is investing $1.5 million to replace a key section of ageing wastewater pipeline in Silverdale, strengthening network resilience, improving reliability, and helping protect the health of the Te Weiti/Wade River.

The pipeline replacement comes after four wastewater pipe breaks led to overflows into the river last year.

Once completed, the new section of pipe will significantly reduce the risk of future overflows, improving environmental outcomes and providing a more reliable wastewater service for the growing community.

The renewal project will begin in early October behind Blue Gum Avenue and is located within a culturally and environmentally sensitive area close to the Te Weiti/Wade River and Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa Marae.

Given the significance of the area, Watercare is working closely with mana whenua, Auckland Council and local stakeholders to carefully plan the project and minimise environmental impacts.

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum says the project is a significant step forward in protecting the local environment and strengthening the wastewater network. 

“Replacing the existing pipeline with a larger pipe will reduce the likelihood of overflows and help safeguard the health of the Te Weiti/Wade River for future generations.

“Alongside this important infrastructure upgrade, we will be partnering with Restore Hibiscus and Bays, Whitebait Connection and Te Herenga Waka o Orewa to plant native trees and shrubs along the river, helping improve its health for people and wildlife,” says Poppelbaum.

Watercare project manager Ronald Gunda says, “Watercare recognises the importance of the Te Weiti/Wade River to mana whenua and mātāwaka and is committed to protecting the mauri of the awa while delivering essential upgrades to ensure the wastewater network continues to serve the growing community safely and reliably.”

"The works will be undertaken with careful consideration for the surrounding environment, minimising disruption to the reserve by utilising a trenchless construction method.  

“The new section of pipe will be installed using horizontal directional drilling, which enables our crews to install the pipe from a series of shafts, rather than excavating a continuous trench through the reserve. 

“This approach will reduce environmental impacts and help deliver the project more efficiently,” says Gunda

The new pipeline is expected to be operational by the end of February 2027.