Karori water supply upgrade works to start

Work to upgrade Karori’s water supply connection is planned to start on 11 January 2010.

The existing pipe bridge crossing over the Kaiwharawhara Stream in Birdwood Reserve immediately below the Karori Sanctuary is at risk if the lower Karori Dam fails as a result of a major earthquake.

Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Water Supply Department plans to replace the old bridge crossing with 30m of new 300mm steel pipe to be laid beneath the Kaiwharawhara Stream bed. This project is estimated to cost $180,000.

The timing of this work has been carefully planned for the dry summer period and so that it is completed prior to the annual migration times for native fish species. Machinery will be working in Birdwood Reserve for a maximum of eight weeks. Work may be completed earlier, depending on the weather.

About 20 trees must be cleared to allow access for the new pipeline and for heavy machinery. Greater Wellington has been working closely with the Department of Conservation and land owner Wellington City Council to ensure any environmental damage is mitigated and contained. Reinstatement work at the end of the project will be done in accordance with a WCC Parks and Gardens approved planting plan.

ENDS

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