Local collaboration delivers new Pahiatua wastewater treatment system

A major upgrade to Pahiatua’s wastewater treatment system has been commissioned, bringing together local contractors, specialist suppliers, iwi and Tararua District Council to deliver critical infrastructure for the town.

Following a dawn blessing conducted by Matua Manahi Paewai, Rihari Daymond and Duane Edwards of Rangitāne o Tamaki nui-ā-Rua, and attended by members of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nui-a-Rua, Tararua District Council, contractors and suppliers, the upgraded Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) system and newly constructed wetlands were officially opened yesterday, Thursday 29 October. The DAF system helps remove contaminants from wastewater, while the wetlands provide further natural treatment.

The project has taken a collaborative approach, with Council working with local businesses and specialist providers to find practical and cost-effective ways to deliver the upgrade.

Tararua District Council Group Manager – Operations, Hamish Featonby, says the project is a strong example of what can be achieved when different businesses bring their expertise together.

“This is what good infrastructure delivery looks like. Different businesses, different skills and different areas of expertise all working together towards the same outcome.

“We’ve been able to make the most of the capability we have locally, while bringing in specialist expertise where it was needed. It’s been a really collaborative project, and that has helped us find practical ways to deliver the infrastructure while making the best use of ratepayer money.”

The project was led and managed by Tararua District Council, and was delivered by HES Contracting, Enviroden, Morris & Bailey, Thinkwater, B & M Electrical, Tonkin & Taylor, The Wastewater Specialists, Phocus Planning and CR Automation.

A significant part of the work was delivered by local contractors and suppliers, providing opportunities for Tararua businesses to put their skills and expertise into practice on a major piece of infrastructure for the district. This local involvement helped keep investment in the community while supporting the delivery of a practical and cost-effective solution for Pahiatua.

Rangitāne o Tamaki nui-ā-Rua and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nui-a-Rua have also been involved, supporting the cultural and environmental aspects of the project.

The new DAF system is now fully operational, with decommissioning of the old plant underway.

The wetlands are also complete, with treated wastewater flowing through them to help clean the water naturally. Planting is finished, and the plants are already thriving.

The new wetlands have even attracted some early residents, with frogs and pied stilts making the area their home.

Tararua District Council Chief Executive, Corin Haines, says the project is about more than simply upgrading a treatment plant.

“This is essential infrastructure, but it’s also a great example of what can happen when we work together, use local capability and bring the right people around the table.

“We’re proud of what this team has delivered for Pahiatua.”

The upgraded treatment plant and wetlands are now operational, with the final decommissioning work on the old plant continuing.

Find out more about the project at Pahiatua Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade and Wetlands | Tararua District Council