Temporary bypass pumps

Around 60 temporary bypass pumps in the eastern suburbs are helping to pump away approximately 600 litres of wastewater per minute, per pump, per day.

Christchurch City Council Water and Waste Manager Mark Christison said temporary bypass pumps are essential in stopping sewerage overflow onto roads and private property and preventing more sewerage from flowing into streams, rivers, waterways and the estuary.

“The pumps are vital in preventing unsanitary conditions in areas where we are working hard to get the system up and running again.

“They divert wastewater while essential repairs to the network continue.

“The pumps have been placed in areas of need around the city and should not be tampered with. If you have concerns about the location or possible damage to a pump, please contact us so we can address any issues.” he said

Pumps will be gradually removed as the wastewater network is repaired, although some pumps are expected to remain in place for many months.

Christchurch City Council water and waste teams and contractors continue to work tirelessly through the evenings and weekends to get the system back up and running. The goal remains to have sewer service returned to all city homes by the end of August.

Each week thousands of households are being told they can start using their household toilets again, with information flyers delivered directly to their letterboxes.

View the map of the chemical toilet distribution area online under the Wastewater section to see whether you should continue using your chemical toilet. Residents will receive an information flyer in their letterbox once the sewers in their street have been cleared and they can start using their household toilet again.

Residents can contact the Council’s Customer Call Centre on 941 8999 or email info@ccc.govt.nz.