The $38.3 million upgrade of the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant is ticking along steadily, with crews on track to have it operational by mid-2026.

Watercare says this work will significantly improve the quality of treated water discharged into the Hōteo River and support future growth in the area.

For Coasties who travel north frequently or have family in the wider Rodney district, this matters.

Wellsford is set to more than double in size by 2052—up to 5,000 residents—so making sure the infrastructure keeps pace is essential for the health of both people and the environment.

Watercare’s Head of Wastewater, Jon Piggot, says the new tech being installed is a big leap forward.

“The upgrade boosts capacity to cater for 3,200 people and can be expanded down the line. More importantly, it’ll mean cleaner water flowing into the Hōteo River thanks to improved treatment using MBR and MABR systems.”

In simple terms, those high-tech tanks use good bugs and UV disinfection to scrub the wastewater until it’s safe enough to return to nature.

With the main tanks and pump station already in place, and 95% of drainage works complete, crews are now turning their attention to the outfall pipeline and remaining concrete pours.

Suzanne Lucas from Watercare’s capital delivery team confirmed the final slabs should be in place by late July, with the control building expected to be finished by September.

Locals driving SH1 just south of Wellsford might notice the ongoing traffic management around the site.

Lucas says it's there for safety, as heavy vehicles are coming and going frequently. “We really appreciate everyone’s patience—it’s a short-term hassle for a long-term benefit.”

Once complete, the new plant will not only reduce the environmental impact of wastewater but also future-proof the area as Wellsford and Te Hana grow.

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