A broken wastewater pipe in Lower Hutt has caused treated and untreated wastewater to flow into Days Bay, located near Eastbourne.
The issue began on Saturday afternoon at the Days Bay pump station. Crews were unable to start repairs immediately due to high tides and low visibility at night.
To prepare for repairs, the main wastewater outfall pipeline to Pencarrow Heads has been temporarily shut off. Consequently, fully treated wastewater is currently being discharged into the Waiwhetu Stream. This measure is intended to control water flow and ensure worker safety during the pipe repair process.
Jeremy McKibbin, a spokesperson for Wellington Water, assured that all possible steps are being taken to reduce the environmental impact of this incident. He mentioned that the repair is complex due to the coastal location and the presence of multiple pump stations in the area. Meanwhile, Eastbourne residents are asked to use toilets and showers sparingly to reduce pressure on the wastewater system.
