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:
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.
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).
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.
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:
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.
The drainlayer must follow this process:
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.
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:
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.
Property development & wastewater
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.
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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