What You Need to Know
Auckland’s rapid urban growth is putting significant pressure on its wastewater infrastructure, leading to capacity constraints across multiple areas. This issue is particularly critical for developers and property owners, as it can impact project feasibility and approval timelines. Understanding these constraints and planning accordingly is essential for a smooth development process.
Why is This Happening?
Auckland’s wastewater network is struggling to keep pace with increasing demand due to population growth, urban intensification, and ageing infrastructure. Watercare has identified several areas where the wastewater system is at or near capacity, meaning new connections may be restricted until upgrades are completed.
What is Being Done About It?
Watercare is investing over $1.2 billion in new and upgraded water and wastewater infrastructure in the current financial year, with a total of $13.7 billion planned over the next decade. Key upgrades include:
Ōtara-Papatoetoe & Favona: Upgrades expected between 2025–2040
Beachlands/Maraetai: Expansions scheduled for 2025–2030
East Auckland & Waitākere: Improvements anticipated between 2035–2040
Beach Haven/Birkdale & Lower North Shore: Planned upgrades 2030–2045
Hibiscus Coast: Army Bay treatment plant upgrade scheduled for 2031
Warkworth: Network expansion expected between 2025–2030
These investments aim to enhance capacity and ensure long-term resilience in Auckland’s wastewater network.
How Will This Affect Development?
For developers, wastewater capacity constraints can lead to delays in obtaining connections, increased compliance costs, and potential project modifications. In some areas, new wastewater connections may be on hold until upgrades are completed. Without proper assessment and planning, projects may face unexpected hurdles.
What Can You Do?
Before proceeding with development, it’s crucial to check whether wastewater network restrictions apply to your site. Watercare provides a self-check tool to determine if your area has capacity constraints. You can access the tool here: Watercare Self-Check
How CLC Consulting Group Ltd Can Help
At CLC Consulting Group Ltd, we specialise in capacity assessments for Auckland’s wastewater network.
Our team can:
Assess network constraints based on your proposed development.
Liaise with Watercare to determine feasibility and potential solutions.
Provide engineering advice to mitigate wastewater capacity issues.
If you are planning a development, we recommend getting in touch with us early to ensure your project is not impacted by wastewater network constraints.
Contact us today to discuss how we can assist with your capacity assessment and development planning.
