This page provides questions and answers about the project
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Which pipes are being replaced?
We are replacing almost 13km of pipes in North East Valley and Opoho.
The map below shows the four zones where work has been completed in zones B, C, D and E. The final works in zone A started in November 2020.
The schedule of works has been adjusted to allow for necessary changes in design and contracts being awarded.
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Why are water, wastewater and stormwater pipes being renewed?
The pipes in North East Valley and Opoho, like those in many parts of the city, are old and do not perform well. The pipes are up to 100 years old and have begun to deteriorate.
Some areas in North East Valley suffer from poor fire flows due to the age and size of existing water pipes, with many streets well below the fire-fighting standard. The watermains are mostly cast iron pipes, which tend to corrode over time. This causes some discolouration of the town water supply and can also affect flows and pressure across the network. Replacing watermains will improve the water supply, so it has better fire flows, fewer burst pipes and unplanned shutdowns, and improved water pressure.
Another issue is that North East Valley has been identified as one of three areas in the city where stormwater and groundwater enter the wastewater network, particularly in heavy rain. Wastewater can also get into the surrounding soils.
Replacing wastewater pipes will reduce the overflows that cause manholes to pop up in heavy rain. We expect the overflows to Lindsay Creek in heavy rain will also reduce, although the issue will not be completely solved at this stage. The size of some stormwater pipes will be increased to meet current and future needs.
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How long will zone A work take?
The construction of zone A will be from November 2020 to November 2021.
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Will my street be closed while the work is done?
Traffic management will be needed while work is done on your street. This may involve reducing the street to a single lane, using priority give ways or, in some cases, closing the street. We will always make access for residents available. Please get in touch with us if you will have any particular problems with work on your street.
The contractor will let you know when work is planned for your street and let you know about any disruptions.
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Will my water be shut off while the work is done?
We will minimise the number and duration of water shutdowns as much as possible, but some shutdowns will still be needed. We will let you know about any planned shutdowns for your street beforehand.
If a water shutdown would cause significant problems for you, please let us know and we will do our best to find a solution. For example, we may be able to adjust the scheduling of shutdowns.
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What do I do if I have a question about the work?
If you have any general questions or concerns about this project, please contact our customer services team on 03 477 4000 or email us at nevrenewals@dcc.govt.nz