Pukekohe Wastewater Treatment Plant

One of Aotearoa’s most advanced wastewater facilities, Pukekohe Wastewater Treatment Plant proves that with the right technology, we can build better, without having to build bigger.

Working in a live operational environment, with tight space and an accelerated timeline, we split the contract into two separable portions to manage the transition from the existing plant. Separable Portion A included new inlet works, an activated sludge reactor, membrane bioreactor, UV disinfection system, and retrofit of existing reactors. Portion B extended the upgrade with the conversion of two sludge bioreactors into activated sludge reactors.

We worked closely with Watercare, iwi, kaitiaki, consultants, and alliance partners to honour the ecological and cultural significance of Waikato te Awa (Waikato River). Together, we restored Parker Lane Stream, achieving record-low nitrogen and phosphorus discharge levels, and raising the bar for water quality in Aotearoa.

This project was described as “industry transforming” by Civil Contractors New Zealand and earned a Highly Commended at the CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards 2021.