Wairau Valley Wastewater Upgrade
Watercare is planning a significant upgrade to the Wairau Valley wastewater network.
Duration
2028 - 2032
Location
Wairau Valley, Totara Vale, Unsworth Heights
Status
Planning
Project Overview
Watercare is planning a significant upgrade to the Wairau Valley wastewater network. The project involves construction of a new Wairau Valley Wastewater Pump Station to accommodate and pass forward increased wastewater volumes from the catchment to the Rosedale Wastewater Treatment Plant. A new larger 3.2 kilometre wastewater pipeline will convey the wastewater to the Rosedale Wastewater Treatment Plant. Once completed, the new infrastructure will significantly reduce the risk of wastewater overflows, helping to protect the local environment and waterways. Additionally, the improved network will provide resilience to the wastewater network, whilst providing greater capacity to support expected population growth in Wairau Valley and surrounding suburbs on Auckland’s North Shore.
The majority of the new pipeline will be installed using trenchless methods known as Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and Pipe Jacking. This technique allows us to work underground with minimal disruption to roads, driveways, gardens, and private properties.
Construction is currently scheduled to begin in mid-2028 and is expected to be completed by mid-2032.
Map
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What is happening now?
From October 2025 - November 2025 our contractors will be conducting geotechnical investigations and various other topographical surveys. These early-stage surveys are essential to inform the design of the new waterwaste infrastructure and ensure it is tailored to the local environment.
During this time, you may notice temporary traffic management changes to various roads along the proposed pipeline route including:
- Stop/go systems in place
- Reduced lane widths
- Pedestrian detours/reduced footpath width
- Bus stops along the proposed route. Please refer to the Auckland Transport website or app and plan ahead.
We ask that you please follow the direction of traffic management staff and traffic signage to keep everyone safe
- Reduce off-street parking
- Reduced speed limits