Sewerage reticulation system testing to begin

As part of Taupō District Council’s commitment to reducing stormwater inflow and groundwater infiltration into the sewerage reticulation system, Council is undertaking inspections of the sewerage reticulation system.

From 12 June, staff will commence site inspections and testing of the sewerage reticulation system in Mangakino. Through the inspections, staff will be able to identify connections from roofs and paved areas into the sewer and poorly connected pipes.

Residents will be notified when Council undertakes the onsite inspections in their area. Council staff will need to enter properties to locate, inspect and test all outside sewerage and drainage systems. Inspections may include smoke testing of the sewerage system, visual inspections of properties and closed circuit television (CCTV).

Council’s Asset Manager for Water and Waste, Ramesh Sharma, says that house drains are the responsibility of each property owner. “The house drain from each property connects to a sewer pipe or sewer manhole.”

The drains need to be maintained by residents to ensure that stormwater and groundwater does not enter the sewerage system. After that the sewer and sewer manholes are Council's responsibility.”

Ramesh recommends that property owners have their properties checked by a plumber for stormwater connections to the sewer. “The residents should also check that their overflow relief gully is above ground level and clear of bricks, pot plants and garden beds to reduce the risk of an overflow in their home.”

The sewerage system is connected to each property and transfers sewage and wastewater from each home or business to the wastewater treatment plant via house drains, sewers and pumping stations. Downpipes that are connected directly to the sewer create an additional burden on the system. This can cause the sewerage to overflow into homes and the environment.