New bridge will safeguard region’s water supply

Monday, 15 July 2024

A major step in protecting the pipe that supplies Wellington with 40% of its drinking water has been taken with a new bridge over the Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River at Silverstream.

The bridge is part of a $93 million Greater Wellington project to safeguard and upgrade bulk water infrastructure and to optimise the capacity of Te Mārua Water Treatment Plant.

Currently 60 million litres a day, serving Porirua and 40% of Wellington City’s water supply, flow through one pipe that is considered a risk in a major earthquake or weather event.

The new bridge will carry a much larger bulk water pipe that will replace the current pipe and there will be a bigger underground pipe.

As well as the new aerial pipe, the bridge will also be available to cyclists and walkers.

On Friday, Wellington Water lifted the 150 tonne centre arch of the Whakawhirinaki Silverstream pipe bridge into place with a 500 tonne crane.

Although it was held up by bad rain, it still attracted a large crowd of sightseers.

Wellington Water put out a call asking onlookers not to use drones.

Chief executive Tonia Haskell said the new bridge was a significant asset for the region.

“The pipe bridge will be a major improvement to the resilience of our water network in the event of an earthquake or severe weather. In addition, it will provide great amenity value for our local councils and their people.

Over the coming months, the focus will be on installing a permanent steel deck on the bridge for the pedestrian and cycling pathway before the installation of the new bulk water pipe. The project is currently on track to be completed by the middle of next year.

Regional councillor Roz Connelly said the new bridge was a win, win situation for the region and local residents.