Warkworth growth servicing pipeline

The latest

We have confirmed a solution for our planned growth pipeline through Warkworth’s town centre that keeps disruption to a minimum and has the support of local business association One Mahurangi. Our Board of Directors approved the recommendation from management at its meeting in December 2024.

While the full growth servicing pipeline will eventually run north and south to connect future developments to the new Snells Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant, our team is prioritising the Elizabeth Street upgrade via temporary connection to existing infrastructure in Queen Street. This early connection to the Warkworth Street Pump Station is expected to be operational by December 2026—two years earlier than originally planned. The remaining sections will now be installed by December 2027 thanks to further efficiencies being identified.

Community Drop-in Session

Later this month, we’ll be hosting a drop-in session where community members can meet the project team, ask questions, and learn more about the upcoming works. You’re welcome to stop by at any time during the session.

We understand not everyone will be able to attend, so if you have any questions, please feel free to email us.

Project overview

The growth servicing pipeline is an incredibly important piece of infrastructure that not only supports new housing north of the Mahurangi River but will significantly reduce the number of wet weather overflows into the river (and therefore the harbour). It will run from the Warkworth Showgrounds through the town centre and connect to the recently built Warkworth Street Pump Station. It is a critical piece in the puzzle of our $450m+ Warkworth wastewater scheme that completely overhauls how the community’s wastewater is transported and treated.

The works

We’ve split delivery of this pipeline into two stages so we can bring environmental benefits to the community sooner.

Stage 1

In January, our crew began the early works needed to get Stage 1 moving.

• What are we doing? Installing a pipeline along Elizabeth Street using conventional trenching methods.

• What is the benefit? The pipeline will resolve the network bottleneck that has been contributing to wet weather overflows at the existing overflow point in the vicinity of Elizabeth Street.

• When will it be finished? December 2026

Stage 2

• What are we doing? Installing the remaining sections of the pipeline both north and south of Elizabeth Street using various trenchless construction methods. We expect to start shaft construction before winter this year.

• What is the benefit? The pipeline will support new housing growth across northern Warkworth

• When will it be finished? Late 2027

What’s happening now?

Service relocations are underway along Elizabeth Street, Falls Street, and surrounding roads, and are expected to be completed by early July 2026. This work will prepare the area for the next stage, including the Queen Street shaft and pipeline works near the Elizabeth Street bridge.

Works will also continue in Lucy Moore Park Reserve, along with activity at the Baxter Street and Warkworth Street pump station shafts. Some noise and disruption is expected, but all work will remain within consented levels.

Construction of a new motorhome dump station is underway at 15 Hamatana Road, Snells Beach, with completion expected by July 2026. Once the new dump station is open, the Kowhai Reserve facility will close to help reduce traffic while pipeline works continue through to early 2027.

Alongside the new pipeline, we’re also renewing parts of the existing wastewater network. Renewing these older pipes:

• extend their life by around 50 years

• reduce stormwater entering the network during heavy rain

• helps reduce the risk of wastewater overflows in Warkworth.

We’ll continue to work closely with local businesses and the wider community to minimise disruption. This includes giving you plenty of notice about upcoming changes and coordinating with our wider team to reduce impacts wherever we can.

Traffic Changes

Elizabeth Street will operate as a one-way, single lane into town from Hill Street, with stop/go traffic management and a signposted detour in place.

Reduced speeds, limited parking, pedestrian detours, and the temporary closure of the Elizabeth Street Reserve will apply while works are underway.

The current traffic setup is likely to remain until the end of September 2026, with pipeline works continuing through to late October. Traffic management will change as works progress, and updates will be shared as details are confirmed.Upgrades to the existing network

We’ll keep you updated as things progress.

Click to view the full-seized map