Wairau Valley Branch Sewer Transmission Renewals
Watercare is about to begin rehabilitating the Wairau Valley Branch Wastewater Network to improve the integrity of wastewater pipes, significantly reduce overflows, and enhance water quality.
Duration
Completion anticipated by September 2026
Location
Wairau Valley, North Shore
Status
Construction
Project overview
Watercare is rehabilitating the Wairau Valley Branch wastewater network to improve the condition of the existing pipes, reduce the risk of overflows, and protect the local environment.
Most of this work will be completed using trenchless technology, which allows us to reline pipes underground with minimal surface disruption. We will also be upgrading associated manholes along the pipeline.
Work will take place across a mix of public reserves, roads, berms, and some private properties. Where access to private property is required, our team will work directly with affected owners.
See the map of the proposed work area below
Click to view the full-sized map
Benefits
This project will help ensure wastewater is safely and reliably transferred through the network to treatment plants. It will also:
- Reduce the likelihood of overflows
- Improve environmental outcomes and water quality
- Extend the life of critical infrastructure
What to expect during construction
To carry out these works, crews will access multiple sewer manholes along the route. As work progresses from location to location, you may notice:
- Temporary, localised traffic disruption
- Construction noise during working hours
- Occasional odour in the immediate work area
- Short-term activity within reserves, berms, and roadside areas
Most work will be short duration at each location before crews move on.
Where works affect private property, access will be arranged directly with property owners.
These works are not expected to disrupt your water or wastewater services.
What have we done so far
We have established at 319 Wairau Road, Totara Vale as we start the first section of rehabilitation between MH26 and MH24. From here, the team will be moving in to Unsworth Reserve to rehabilitate the section of the asset running through the park. You can expect some fencing and temporary footpaths inside of the park whilst we complete our works here.
We will be working closely with our stakeholder team to ensure that disruption to park users is kept to an absolute minimum. If you do have any questions, please contact us.