The disused Papakura Water Treatment Plant was reinstated as part of Watercare’s drought management plan. Built over two stages, the project plays a vital role in boosting water supply resilience to Auckland.

In Stage One we constructed a temporary treatment plant, taking water from the Hays Creek Dam, and a pipeline to connect it to the network. We also constructed a 9m high bored pile retaining wall and all associated earthworks to create a platform to accommodate the new plant.

Stage Two involved construction of a permanent treatment plant providing 12 ML/d of Aa-graded drinking water to Auckland residents. This included 4 clarifiers, membrane train, UV treatment and 4 BAC filters. We also completed difficult structural repairs to existing 70-year-old reservoirs and new interconnecting and outlet pipework. This was undertaken in an extremely congested site with minimal laydown area so required careful coordination between the multidisciplinary team.

The project demonstrated BPC’s technical excellence, collaboration, innovation, and exceptional Health and Safety, bringing tangible relief to the Auckland community.

Awards

1. IPWEA Excellence in Water Project 2021