Watercare’s projects have picked up across Auckland City, with works resuming on the NZD$1.2 billion (AUD $1.14 billion) Central Interceptor wastewater project.
Work came grinding to a halt after Auckland was placed under level 4 restrictions last month, under which only minimal work involving the two Central Interceptor tunnel boring machines (TBMs) were allowed to continue to prevent sinking and damage.
Water executive program director Shayne Cunis said the team is enthusiastic to be ramping up work again.
“We had only just launched our main TBM Hiwa-i-te-Rangi before we went into level 4, and there was significant work required to complete on-site assembly as she progressed forward,” said Cunis.
“We have managed to keep her inching forward at a minimum rate, and, as of the end of alert level 4, we have installed 18 of the 9008 concrete rings of the Central Interceptor.”
Cunis said that anyone who is not essential onsite will still be working from home.
“As we move into alert level 3, we will increase our production to target rates over the coming weeks, while ensuring we are looking after our team’s health, safety and wellbeing as the majority of them return to work.
“We have enhanced COVID-19 management protocols which include mask wearing, maintaining strict work bubbles, carrying out daily temperature checks for all site staff, and disinfecting all overalls every day.”
Works are also picking up in the second stage of the Papakura Water Treatment Plant, which will provide up to 12 million litres a day from Hays Creek Dam when it is completed early next year.
Works will also proceed on the new Mairangi Bay wastewater pump station, Clevedon’s new water and wastewater network, the replacement of the Huia 1 water main, where works are underway in Mt Albert and the Pukekohe Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade.
For more information visit the Watercare website.