West Harbour water distribution main (Port Chalmers Water Supply)

As part of the DCC 3 Waters capital works programme to replace pipes across Dunedin, work has commenced this year to renew the West Harbour drinking water distribution main that runs from Ravensbourne to Roseneath.

In certain areas, the existing pipe is up to 60 years old. This work will help build resilience to our drinking water network in the West Harbour area by upgrading this pipe, as well as looking to avoid areas that can be affected by slips.

We will also be increasing the size of this pipe to help supply West Harbour with larger quantities of water, as well as allowing for the Port Chalmers Treatment Plant and other pumping stations to be eventually decommissioned.

We will be renewing approx. 6.5kms of pipe over approx. 3 years, with construction in the Roseneath area having started in early 2025. The image below shows the entire scope of work broken down into sections:

West Harbour water distribution main (Port Chalmers Water Supply)

Section 4 and SH88 Section are currently under construction. Section 5 has been completed. Sections 1, 2, 3a, 3b and 3c are in the design and planning stage.

Section 5 – Roseneath

Construction commenced in January 2025 to install a new water main along Reeves Street in Roseneath. The contract for this stage of work was awarded to Downer who completed their work in April 2025.
Section SH88 – Roseneath to St Leonards

Construction commenced in September 2025 to install the new water main between District Road, Roseneath and Wren Lane, St Leonards. The contract for this stage of work was awarded to McConnell Dowell. This section was completed in June 2026.
Section 4 – St Leonards

Construction commenced in June 2025 to install the new water main through St Leonards, including Takahe Terrace and St Leonards Drive. The contract for this stage of work was awarded to Downer. This section was completed in June 2026.
Section 1 – Ellesmere Street to Athol Pl

This section of work is still in the design and planning stage. We will update this page and contact affected residents before construction is due to commence.
Section 2 – Athol Place to Jessie Street

This section of work is still in the design and planning stage. We will update this page and contact affected residents before construction is due to commence.
Section 3A – Jessie Street to Burkes Drive

This section of work is still in the design and planning stage. We will update this page and contact affected residents before construction is due to commence.
Section 3B – Burkes Drive to Moa Street

Investigation work in this section has commenced to locate services and check ground conditions. Construction is currently planned to commence in September 2026 to install the new main along St Leonards Drive and Burkes Drive. It is currently expected this will be completed by approx. April 2027.
Section 3C – Moa Street to Pukeko Street

This section of work is still in the design and planning stage. We will update this page and contact affected residents before construction is due to commence.

We will work with the contractor to minimise disruption to residents. However, the work will involve traffic management (including road closures) and water shutdowns when the new pipes are connected and the old pipes are decommissioned. If work is scheduled for your street, the contractor will notify you beforehand and let you know about any disruptions.

If you have any general questions or concerns about this project, please contact our Customer Services team on 03 477 4000 or fill out the feedback form below.

3 Waters Projects Customer Feedback Form

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