Tararua District Council has moved into the construction phase of the Pahiatua Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade and the construction of new wetlands — designed to significantly improve the quality of treated water before it’s released into the environment, following a decision by the Environment Court and in line with consent conditions set by Horizons Regional Council and Tararua District Council.

Tararua District Council Group Manager – Operations, Hamish Featonby, says this marks the start of an important environmental project.

“This project is the result of years of careful planning, consultation, and collaboration with our iwi partners and stakeholders,” says Featonby. “Now that we’re entering the construction phase, we’re building a more sustainable and resilient wastewater system for Pahiatua — one that protects our waterways, supports biodiversity, and meets modern environmental standards.”

The upgraded treatment system will include a new Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) plant, alongside a three-stage constructed wetland system — a Vertical Flow Wetland (VFW), a Surface Flow Wetland (SFW), and a Biodiversity Wetland. Together, these will naturally remove nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, E. coli and ammonia, improving water quality and enhancing local ecosystems.

Council’s Project Manager, Eugene Priest, adds: “Getting to this stage has taken a huge amount of work. The construction we’re starting now ensures we continue to meet our consent obligations while improving the environmental performance of our wastewater network. The wetlands will also create new habitat for native plants and wildlife — an added benefit for the local environment.”

Construction will run through to late 2026, with the wetlands expected to be completed by early next year and the full system commissioned later in the year.

During construction, residents may notice increased activity and vehicle movements near the treatment plant. Council and contractors will work to minimise disruption and provide regular updates as the project progresses.

For more information, visit Pahiatua Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade and Wetlands | Tararua District Council