Auckland's relationship with water is taking centre stage as the region grapples with the impact of extreme weather events.

After enduring two years of drought followed by a year of record rainfall, the people of Auckland are realizing the vital importance of safeguarding their precious water resources.

One initiative that's making a big splash in this endeavour is the Auckland Council's Water Quality Targeted Rate.

This dedicated program, fueled by targeted rates, is on a mission to protect and enhance the water quality of Auckland's rivers, beaches, and harbours.

It's a cause that has captured the attention of Aucklanders, who place a high value on their waterways.

Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, is enthusiastic about the progress made despite the challenges of severe flooding events in the past year. "It's fantastic to see how our targeted rate investment continued to improve water quality throughout 2022/2023".

The council has committed a substantial $452 million to a variety of water infrastructure projects, ranging from large-scale endeavours to operational programs like Safe Networks.

The Recovery Budget 2021-2031 has further bolstered these efforts, enabling the council to tackle long-term water quality issues in the Eastern Isthmus and Manukau Harbour.

Recent events like the sinkhole in Parnell, which led to a rāhui placed over the Waitematā Harbour by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and discharges into the harbour, underscore the importance of these planned improvements.

Thanks to the swift action of Watercare, the situation is being mitigated, and the water quality is under continuous scrutiny to protect this cherished taonga.

In a recent presentation to the Planning, Environment, and Parks Committee, key highlights and successes for 2022/2023 were showcased.

Councillor Angela Dalton, Chair of the Planning, Environment, and Parks Committee, noted the progress made in the fifth year of the water quality targeted rate. "We've seen some real progress on major projects this past year, demonstrating the impact of targeted rates."

One of the major projects that has been in focus is the extension of the Central Interceptor tunnel from Grey Lynn to Pt Erin Park.

This expansion adds 1.4 kilometres to the existing tunnel, significantly improving water quality for areas like Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, and the northern beaches.

The commitment to improving the recreational and swimming environment for Aucklanders is evident in the investigation of drainage issues affecting over 8,000 properties and the testing of 130 stormwater outlets across 25 beaches.

The Water Quality Targeted Rate is at the forefront of efforts to combat water quality issues caused by storm events and wastewater overflows.

The programs under this rate have been instrumental in providing tools and knowledge to support the recovery and future work for stream rehabilitation.

Key highlights include:

1. Western Isthmus Water Quality Improvement Program: This $680 million program is jointly funded by the targeted rate and Watercare. It focuses on major infrastructure upgrades to reduce wastewater overflows into the Waitematā Harbour and stop wet weather wastewater overflows during most normal rainfall events.
2. Safe Networks: Investigating and fixing drainage network issues that contribute to poor water quality and pose public health risks. This program involves testing stormwater outlets and inspecting private property drainage.
3. Safe Septic: Implementing a compliance system for regular maintenance of onsite wastewater systems to reduce faecal contaminants entering waterways and beaches.
4. Urban and Rural Stream Rehabilitation: This program works on improving the ecological health of streams and rivers, involving streambank erosion management and community involvement.
5. Contaminant Reduction: Efforts to improve the ecological health of waterways in both urban and rural areas, including retrofitting stormwater networks in older parts of Auckland and supporting the Kaipara Moana Remediation program.
6. Eastern Isthmus Water Quality Improvement: Investment to address water quality issues in the eastern isthmus, including stormwater infrastructure projects to reduce overflows and pollution.
7. Southern Catchment Alignment: A new program aimed at improving water quality in the Manukau Harbour by aligning stormwater improvements with other infrastructure projects to maximize efficiency.

Auckland's commitment to clean water is evident through these programs fueled by targeted rates.

As Aucklanders come together to protect their waterways, the future looks brighter for the region's cherished natural treasures.

The city is forging ahead on the path to cleaner harbours, safer beaches, and healthier streams.