Monday 13 February, 2023
Monday 20 February
Valves were closed at 2pm on Monday 20 February.
Monday 13 February
The city wastewater system has been flooded with large amounts of rainwater draining from residential properties into our sewers.
The emergency valve at the Gladstone Road Bridge was opened to release the pressure at 11.30 am. All affected parties have been notified.
“We need to open the valves into waterways to avoid wastewater overflows into people’s homes from overflowing gully traps and through manholes on the street, which can cause health risks.”
With more rain still expected on already sodden ground, there will be a possibility of more overflows. Currently flows are sitting at 550% of normal, as the flow increases more scour valves may have to be opened.
Please stay off the roads if you can, surface flooding could contain wastewater.
Contact with the waterways is likely to pose a risk to health.
We are notifying the Hauora Tairāwhiti Medical Officer of Health, water user and sports groups.
Temporary warning signs will be installed at swimming and recreation sites.
We advise no swimming, fishing, or gathering shellfish in rivers and beaches until at least 5 days after the valves are closed, and warning signs are removed.
We'll update this notice when the discharge has stopped.
We only open the valves when it’s absolutely necessary, here’s more information on DrainWise
If you have a sewer overflow on your property, please call us on 0800 653 800 or take photos or videos and send them to us at [email protected].
If your toilet water level is high, don’t flush if you can. Avoid unnecessary water use in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry.