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Our wastewater network

Our wastewater networks are serviced by a variety of systems depending on the scale of the reticulated catchment. The smallest scheme caters for eight households averaging an inflow of about four cubic metres per day, while the largest scheme averages an inflow of about 2,300 cubic metres per day.

The treatment service is provided via pond systems, re-circulating media systems, storage tanks, pump stations and an extensive underground pipe network. Our wastewater treatment system includes:

  • Nine wastewater treatment plants.
  • 78 wastewater pump stations.
  • 292 km of reticulated wastewater pipelines.
  • 13,623 domestic and industrial property connections.
The Ngaaruawaahia, Huntly, Raglan and Te Kauwhata wastewater treatment plants

“These wastewater treatment plants operate using an oxidation pond system with final disposal to receiving waterways andan also use ultra-violet (UV) light treatment prior to discharging treated water into their receiving waterways.

The Maramarua, Matangi, Tauwhare and Te Kowhai wastewater treatment plants
The Maramarua, Matangi, Tauwhare and Te Kowhai wastewater treatment plants operate through a system of septic tanks, followed by a re-circulating media system then final disposal to land via irrigation.
The Meremere wastewater treatment plant

The Meremere wastewater treatment plant operates using an oxidation pond system with final disposal to receiving waterways.

It also uses ultra-violet (UV) light treatment prior to discharging treated water into their receiving waterways.

 

Whaaingaroa|Raglan Wastewater discharge

The Whaaingaroa|Raglan Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) accelerates natural processes that treats effluent so it can be returned (discharged) to the environment. The plant removes solids and pollutants, breaks down organic matter, uses U.V disinfection to to kill bugs and restores the oxygen content of treated water.

The wastewater from the treatment plant is discharged on the outgoing tide twice daily. This method was chosen to reduce treated effluent entering the harbour. Waikato District Council does not recommend swimming or collection of shellfish in the immediate area of the discharge point (picture below).

location of discharge

We are investigating options for a longer-term environmentally-friendly solution that will meet the needs of the growing Raglan community. Please see our Raglan wastewater discharge consent for more details.

For more information call us on 0800 492 452.

Raglan Treated Wastewater Discharge Meeting – 2 November 2023

The Waikato District Council and Raglan Community Board hosted a community meeting in Raglan on 2 November.

The purpose of the meeting was to talk to the community about the recent incidents of discharge of treated wastewater on the incoming tide, as opposed to the normal practice of discharging treated wastewater on the outgoing tide.

This meeting covered:

  • What happened
  • Why it happened
  • What’s been done to fix the problem
  • What’s being done to prevent this from happening again.
  • The status of the Raglan Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Project
Below is a recording of the meeting and a copy of the presentation made by Watercare can be found here.
  

FAQs

Connecting to the wastewater system

In Waikato, most wastewater is carried by gravity pipes. Connections to the wastewater network can be done by a drainlayer, that holds a NZ Certificate in Infrastructure Works Level 4 in the wastewater and stormwater strand. Otherwise, a qualified drainlayer with an equivalent qualification for working on wastewater or storm water assets.

If we consider the job to be complex, a maintenance contractor will be required to complete the work.
How to apply:

The drainlayer must follow this process: 

  1. Complete the work as specified in the approved plans.
  2. Email waikatooperations@water.co.nz with the pre-network connection checklist.
  3. We will review and we will send you an email. This may take up to 10 working days.
  4. When you have approval, notify us by emailing waikatooperations@water.co.nz two working days before carrying out the connection. If we have planned works or urgent unplanned works, we reserve the right to cancel or reschedule your job.
  5. Notify us again by emailing waikatooperations@water.co.nz within one working day that the job is complete.
Building over or near Council infrastructure:

If you are proposing to build within five meters of a wastewater pipeline or asset, you will need to complete and submit a build over application. Find out more here.

Low pressure wastewater connection

Waikato District Council has four low pressure wastewater areas in Pokeno, Tauwhare Pa, Te Ohaki Road and Whānga Coast 

If you are eligible for a Boundary Kit, you can apply here for Council to complete installation. Acceptance will confirm ability, cost and location of a connection at the property boundary.  

The property owner will be responsible for all works on the private side of the property boundary, including: 

  • Installing an approved Low pressure pump station  
  • Decommissioning of an existing septic tank, if applicable 

To view costs associated with a new connection, click here for the 2021/24 Fees and Charges.   

You can apply for this connection here, this is to be accompanied by a building consent. Please note that all installations are to be completed by a qualified NZ Certificate in Infrastructure Works Level 4 drain layer as per approved engineering plans.  

The drainlayer must follow this process:  

  1. Complete the work as specified in the approved plans.
  2. Email waikatoperations@water.co.nz with the pre-network connection checklist. 
  3. We will review and we will send you an email. This may take up to 10 working days.
  4. When you have approval, notify us by emailing waikatoperations@water.co.nz two working days before carrying out the connection. If we have planned works or urgent unplanned works, we reserve the right to cancel or reschedule your job. 
  5. Notify us again by emailing waikatoperations@water.co.nz within one working day that the job is complete. 

Property development & wastewater

If you are developing land, building or renovating, you will need to consider your wastewater needs and any consents you may need to obtain to ensure your activities are linked in appropriately with Council infrastructure and services. See land and property for more information.
Cleaning your property's tank(s)

If you're the owner of a property containing a septic tank wastewater disposal system, you must have your property's tank pumped out every three years. This is so septic tanks can continue to efficiently treat domestic wastewater from these households.

You need to get this waste material  removed by a contractor who should dispose of it at the nearest facility provided for this kind of waste product. It is your responsibility to ensure this is arranged and carried out appropriately from removal to disposal.

Keeping stormwater out of our wastewater systems

When stormwater enters into the Council’s wastewater network, this is called 'infiltration'. Infiltration can be caused by incorrectly-plumbed downpipes, damaged pipe work or overflows into gully traps. These overflows can pose health risks to the public; indirect environmental effects; and problems at Council pump stations.

Stormwater from your property must not enter the Council’s wastewater network. Check your property to ensure that any gully traps are high enough to prevent surface water flows entering the wastewater system. Also ensure that any roof-down pipes do not lead directly into the wastewater system or your gully trap.

Find out more about our stormwater network.

Find out more about how your actions can also impact on water supply

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