Water and Sanitary Services Assessment

Water and sanitary services assessment

Wairoa District Council

Water and Sanitary Assessments Review 2015

Prepared By ______

Linda Cook Consultant Engineer (Wairoa District Council)

Approved By ______

Jamie Cox Engineering Manager (Wairoa District Council)

Date: July 2015 Status: Final Draft for audit

Peer Review This document was independently peer reviewed by David Fraser of AMSAAM Ltd, who is an acknowledged expert in infrastructure asset management

Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction

Under the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill No.3, Section 125 of the LGA 2002 states that

‘A Territorial Authority must, from time to time, assess the provision within its District of a) Water supply b) Other sanitary services’

The Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3) inserts a new section 126 which outlines the purpose of the assessments as:

‘to assess, from a public health perspective, the adequacy of water and other sanitary services available to communities within a territorial authority’s district, in light of— (a) the health risks to communities arising from any absence of, or deficiency in, water or other sanitary services; and (b) the quality of services currently available to communities within the district; and (c) the current and estimated future demands for such services; and (d) the extent to which drinking water provided by water supply services meets applicable regulatory standards; and (e) the actual or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges within the district’

This assessment is an update of the 2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment in light of changes in legislation, changes in levels of service and also changes in the Wairoa District.

Progress since 2005 Assessment

A number of recommendations and proposals were made in the 2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment. Council has made significant progress in implementing these actions. Some key areas of progress are outlined in the table below:

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015

WATER SUPPLY Where a lack of alternative sources of supply Options for the Mahanga supply continue to be combined with density of development bring about considered or cause to bring about a risk to public health through lack of water potability then communal Funding has been applied for in relation to treatment and reticulation systems shall be investigations into treatment options provided Further to community feedback, a referendum will be made prior to any final decision as to Council will monitor growth in the District, with whether to upgrade or decommission the supply particular regard given to the Mahia Peninsula Tuai supply has been upgraded to meet If there is deemed to be a deficiency in the water drinking water standards supply that results in a public health risk then Council will investigate the provision of a Contingency / resilience planning includes an reticulated system or explore other suitable investigation of alternative supply provisions for options Wairoa, currently dependent on one supply source Provision has been made, in the next 10 to 20 years, to investigate and implement, as appropriate, a public water supply for Mahia

Executive Summary i Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015 Problems resulting in a lack of supply capacity will Levels of service and performance measures / be addressed so that affected customers have a targets have been strengthened in the 2015 service that is reliable and able to meet the Asset Management Plan requirements of domestic/commercial/industrial use and fire fighting

WASTEWATER The provision of additional treatment to the Wairoa Complete wastewater system The upgrading of the Tuai wastewater system Complete Complete CCTV inspection of reticulated network Ongoing with specific condition monitoring and determine maintenance and renewal budgets in 2015 AMP / LTP to determine most requirements effective renewals programme. Implement measures to minimise overloads and Ongoing as part of infiltration and inflow contamination caused by cross connections, investigations and remedial works (provision in stormwater infiltration to sanitary sewers and 2015 LTP and AMP) flooding of sewage pump stations Investigate treatment options for existing and new Mahia and Opoutama wastewater treatment developments in the future systems now in operation Feasibility study underway for the Wairoa Treatment Plant Upgrade / Replacement required as current discharge consent expires in 2019

STORMWATER Determine and implement a program to collect Ongoing with specific condition monitoring detailed data for stormwater assets (eg condition) budgets in 2015 AMP / LTP to determine most effective renewals programme Continue CCTV inspection of reticulated network and determine maintenance and renewal requirements Implement measures to minimise stormwater contamination Implement capital and renewal works programme To be developed from condition assessments / to mitigate peak flows and adverse effects of monitoring stormwater runoff Protection and classification of overland flowpaths Part of asset data collection programme (refer as public drains Improvement plan in 2015 Stormwater AMP)

CEMETERIES Development within the Wairoa, Nuhaka and Ongoing Ruakituri cemeteries on an as needed basis Pursue the needs identified for a cemetery in Provision made in 2015 AMP and LTP Mahia (deferred) Continue to identify burial sites that are at risk As identified from coastal erosion

PUBLIC TOILETS Council will continue to monitor demand within Ongoing the district, and particularly in the Mahia area Facility upgrades identified in 2015 AMP / LTP Develop an Asset Management Plan for the Included in 2015 Parks and Reserves AMP management of public toilets

Executive Summary ii Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Summary of 2015 Assessments

Between 1996 and 2013, the population in Wairoa fell from 9,900 to 7,890 indicating a steady decline over this period (average of 120 people per year with 591 or 7% drop between the Census in 2006 and that in 2013). It is predicted that this decline will continue. However, it is unlikely that the levels of service required will reduce. Continued maintenance of assets to support activities will be required, legislation will change and community expectations will change with time.

Safe drinking water is a fundamental requirement for everyone. To ensure this, careful management of community water supplies and wastewater discharge processes will be required - in particular, in areas where development has occurred on unconsolidated sediments and unconfined aquifer systems as the conflicting resource uses in these areas can present a public health risk.

The tables below summarise the adequacy of the water and other sanitary services provided by Wairoa District Council in relation to the purpose of the assessment as set out in section 126 of the Local Government Act.

WATER SUPPLY

Executive Summary iii Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

WATER SUPPLY

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a reducing number of complaints, Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality of the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed services from a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognizes that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand (d) the extent to which drinking The Water Information New Zealand website, which provides data water provided by water and information on all registered supplies in the country states: supply services meets applicable regulatory  Wairoa supply (a minor supply) – ungraded but complying standards with the DWSNZ  Mahanga supply (a neighbourhood supply) – ungraded and reporting not required  Tuai supply (a small supply) – ungraded – was non-complying with the DWSNZ at the time of the last report (2013) but has since been upgraded to meet the requirements of the DWSNZ Water Safety Plans are in place for all public networks and each supply has a contingency plan in place Community supplies / networks (private) are registered by the responsible party as required. Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of meeting applicable regulatory standards (e) the actual or potential Potential risks associated with ingress of stormwater into supplies consequences of stormwater addressed in Water Safety Plans and sewage discharges within the district Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of actual or potential of stormwater and sewage discharges

WASTEWATER

Executive Summary iv Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

WASTEWATER

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa In these cases, Council continues to provide education and enforcement of wastewater treatment and discharge requirements for any new development through building consents. In terms of the existing services provided by Council, they are considered adequate in relation to health risks; all have resource consent in place for which Council is generally compliant. A key health risk to Wairoa, being the largest population centre in the District, is the discharge of untreated wastewater into the river. Such risks are being reduced through the current inflow and infiltration investigations and remedial works. Wastewater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the services. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of currently available to service agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are communities within the related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a generally reducing number of complaints over the years, Wastewater services provided in Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality if the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed services from a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognizes that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Wastewater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand (d) the extent to which drinking Council has consents in place for all public wastewater systems. water provided by water Whilst resource consent are generally being met, where they are supply services meets not, action plans are being implemented to address this. applicable regulatory standards By generally meeting regulatory standards and resource consent conditions for wastewater and with a good record in relation to water-borne disease across the district: Wastewater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of prevention of contamination of water supplies (e) the actual or potential Council is fully aware of potential problems and consequences consequences of stormwater from stormwater and sewage discharges. Through a number of and sewage discharges means such as building and resource consents, bylaws and within the district policy, Council can control and enforce legislative requirements. Council has recognised and identified problems of inflow and infiltration of stormwater into the wastewater system which can lead to discharge of untreated sewage. Measures are being put in place to address this. With regard to discharge of effluent into rivers and other similar issues, Council works with Regional Council in providing public education and monitoring

Executive Summary v Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

WASTEWATER

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa It is considered that Council provides adequate service in terms of recognising and addressing potential issues associated with stormwater and sewage discharge.

STORMWATER

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa (a) the health risks to It is unrealistic to expect all population centres in the Wairoa communities arising from District to be serviced by a reticulated stormwater network. Much any absence of, or of the population is rural or in small clusters / settlements. deficiency in, water or other In terms of the existing services provided by Council, they are sanitary services considered adequate in relation to health risks.  Continued education and enforcement by Council and HBRC assists in reduction of discharge of contaminated runoff into the river  inflow and infiltration of stormwater into the wastewater network is being addressed through inspection and remedial works and an aggressive renewals programme.  Building restrictions and civil defense education for the public reduces risks associated with flooding Stormwater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the services. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of currently available to service agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are communities within the related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. By meeting the majority of performance measures related to ‘customer’ levels of service, stormwater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality of the service provided although a below target customer satisfaction result should be further analysed (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Stormwater Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme. The AMP services recognizes that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Stormwater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand (d) the extent to which drinking With appropriate processes in place to protect the environment, water provided by water such as public education, enforcement and inflow / infiltration supply services meets remedial works and by complying with statutory documents and applicable regulatory resource consents, stormwater services provided by Wairoa standards are considered adequate in terms of prevention of contamination of water supplies (e) the actual or potential Council is fully aware of potential problems and consequences consequences of stormwater from stormwater and sewage discharges. Through a number of

Executive Summary vi Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

STORMWATER

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa and sewage discharges means such as building and resource consents, bylaws and within the district policy, Council can control and enforce legislative requirements. Council has recognised and identified problems of inflow and infiltration of stormwater into the wastewater system which can lead to discharge of untreated sewage. Measures are being put in place to address this. With regard to discharge of contaminated stormwater into rivers and other similar issues, Council works with Regional Council in providing public education and monitoring It is considered that Council provides adequate service in terms of recognising and addressing potential issues associated with stormwater and sewage discharge.

CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

(a) the health risks to Council is required by legislation to provide cemetery services communities arising from where they are not provided by other private means. any absence of, or deficiency in, water or other With the Wairoa and other public cemeteries, Council is ensuring sanitary services that health risks associated with no such services is eliminated. The option of a Mahia cemetery is under consideration to ensure the communities in the Mahia area are adequately provided for. In terms of the existing services provided by Council, the cemetery service is considered adequate in relation to health risks; there is an estimated 10 years plus capacity and the cemeteries are managed by Council with an operations and maintenance contract in place to ensure burial services are provided and that the cemeteries are well maintained. Cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the service. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of currently available to service agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are communities within the largely related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a reducing number of complaints, cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality if the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Cemeteries Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed services from a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognises that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand

Executive Summary vii Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

(d) the extent to which drinking The provision of cemetery services means that burials are water provided by water undertaken in a controlled manner. Council uses standard burial supply services meets practices, creating buffer zones (using deep rooted trees and applicable regulatory shrubs as boundary plantings that assist in the attenuation of standards potential contaminants) to minimise the likelihood of adverse effects on public or environmental health including contamination of water supply sources. Cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of prevention of contamination of water supplies (e) the actual or potential Potential risks associated with stormwater or sewage discharges consequences of stormwater in relation to cemeteries is considered to be minimal. and sewage discharges within the district

PUBLIC TOILETS

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

(a) the health risks to Council is required by legislation to ‘improve, promote, and protect communities arising from public health within its district’. any absence of, or deficiency in, water or other Council provides adequate facilities both in terms of number and sanitary services quality of facilities and, as such, is ensuring that health risks associated with no such services is eliminated. In terms of the existing services, all public toilets are managed by Council through maintenance and operations, ensuring health risks associated with the facilities are minimised. Public Toilet services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the service. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of currently available to service agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are communities within the largely related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a limited number of complaints, public toilet facilities provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality of the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Parks and Reserves Asset Management Plan future demands for such addresses this in detail with a capital and renewals programme to services be developed from a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognises that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Public toilet facilities provided by Wairoa and planned for the next 10 years are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand

Executive Summary viii Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

(d) the extent to which drinking The provision of public toilet facilities will have minimal effect on water provided by water water supplies. The exception may be where toilets with on-site A supply services meets wastewater disposal systems are located near water supply n applicable regulatory sources. However, provided a resource consent is in place and standards conditions are met, adverse effects will be no more than minimal. a Public toilet facilities provided by Wairoa are considered to s have minimal impact on water supplies meeting relevant s regulatory standards (e)e the actual or potential Potential risks associated with stormwater or sewage discharges s consequences of stormwater in relation to public toilets is considered to be minimal. s and sewage discharges m within the district e nt of the Solid Waste Management Activity has been completed under the 2012 Waste Management and Minimisation Plan.

Executive Summary ix Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Contents 1 Introduction ...... 3 2 2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment ...... 4 2.1 INtroduction ...... 4 2.2 Status of Key proposals of the 2005 WSSA ...... 4 3 Legislation, Statutory Guidelines & Other Key Strategic Documents ...... 7 3.1 Overview ...... 7 3.2 Local Government Act 2002 ...... 7 3.3 Health Act 1956 ...... 8 3.4 Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand 2005 (Revised 2008) ...... 8 3.5 Long Term Plan (LTP) ...... 9 4 Overview of the Wairoa District ...... 10 4.1 Geographic context ...... 10 4.2 Population & Demographics ...... 10 4.3 District Economy ...... 12 4.4 Wairoa Environmental Characteristics ...... 13 5 Water Supply Assessment ...... 15 5.1 Brief Outline of Activity ...... 15 5.2 Risks Associated with the Absence of or Deficiency in Water Supply services...... 17 5.3 Quality of Services ...... 20 5.4 Current and Future Demand ...... 24 5.5 Compliance with Regulatory Standards ...... 26 5.6 Actual or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges ...... 30 5.7 Summary & Improvement Planning ...... 30 6 Wastewater Assessment ...... 35 6.1 Brief Outline of Activity ...... 35 6.2 Risks Associated with the Absence of or Deficiency in Wastewater services...... 36 6.3 Quality of Services ...... 38 6.4 Current and Future Demand ...... 41 6.5 Compliance with Regulatory Standards ...... 43 6.6 ACTUAL or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges ...... 48 6.7 Summary & Improvement Planning ...... 48 7 Stormwater Assessment ...... 52 7.1 Brief Outline of Activity ...... 52 7.2 Risks Associated with the Absence of or Deficiency in Stormwater services...... 54 7.3 Quality of Services ...... 59 7.4 Current and Future Demand ...... 61 7.5 Compliance with Regulatory Standards ...... 62 7.6 Actual or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges ...... 63 7.7 Summary & Improvement Planning ...... 63

Contents i Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

8 Cemeteries and Crematoria Assessment ...... 68 8.1 General Description of Activity in wairoa ...... 68 8.2 Risks Associated with the Absence of or Deficiency in Cemetery services...... 69 8.3 Quality of Services ...... 71 8.4 Current and Future Demand ...... 72 8.5 Compliance with Regulatory Standards ...... 73 8.6 Actual or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges ...... 74 8.7 Summary & Improvement Planning ...... 74 9 Public Toilets Assessment ...... 78 9.1 General Description of Facilities ...... 78 9.2 Risks Associated with the Absence of or Deficiency in Public Toilet services...... 80 9.3 Quality of Services ...... 80 9.4 Current & Future DEmand ...... 82 9.5 Compliance with Regulatory Standards ...... 83 9.6 Actual or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges ...... 83 9.7 Summary & Improvement Planning ...... 83 10 Solid Waste Assessment ...... 86

Contents ii Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

1 INTRODUCTION

This Water and Sanitary Services Assessment (WSSA) is an update to the assessment prepared by GHD and adopted by Council in 2005.

Under the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill No.3, Section 125 of the LGA 2002 states that

‘A Territorial Authority must, from time to time, assess the provision within its District of c) Water supply d) Other sanitary services’

This WSSA addresses the adequacy of the water and other sanitary services provided across the Wairoa District with particular focus on:

 The health risks associated with the absence of or deficiency in those services provided  The quality of services provided  Current and estimated future demand for the services  The extent to which the services meet applicable regulatory standards  The actual and potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges across the district

Introduction 3 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

2 2005 WATER AND SANITARY SERVICES ASSESSMENT

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Whilst the content and findings of the 2005 assessment remain largely unchanged, there have been some changes to the services provided in Wairoa and changes in legislation including requirements of the assessment under the Local Government Act 2002.

It is therefore considered an appropriate time to undertake a review of the 2005 assessments.

It is also important to determine the status of key proposals adopted in the 2005 WSSA to meet current and future demand.

2.2 STATUS OF KEY PROPOSALS OF THE 2005 WSSA

2.2.1 Water Supply

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015 Where a lack of alternative sources of supply Options for the Mahanga supply continue to be combined with density of development bring about considered or cause to bring about a risk to public health through lack of water potability then communal Funding has been applied for in relation to treatment and reticulation systems shall be investigations into treatment options provided Further to community feedback, a referendum will be made prior to any final decision as to Council will monitor growth in the District, with whether to upgrade or decommission the supply particular regard given to the Mahia Peninsula Tuai supply has been upgraded to meet If there is deemed to be a deficiency in the water drinking water standards supply that results in a public health risk then Council will investigate the provision of a Contingency / resilience planning includes an reticulated system or explore other suitable investigation of alternative supply provisions for options Wairoa, currently dependent on one supply source Provision has been made, in the next 10 to 20 years, to investigate and implement, as appropriate, a public water supply for Mahia Problems resulting in a lack of supply capacity will Levels of service and performance measures / be addressed so that affected customers have a targets have been strengthened in the 2015 service that is reliable and able to meet the Asset Management Plan requirements of domestic/commercial/industrial use and fire fighting New properties not connected to the public Building Act requirements enforced through network will be required to install treatment building consents devices as per the requirements of the Building Act Where insufficient storage capacity has been Renewal works on the Tawhara Reservoir tanks identified, Council will move to ensure a supply is 2015-2018 will ensure minimum 24 hours available to protect public health and wellbeing storage during a civil emergency Contingency / resilience planning includes an investigation of alternative supply provisions for Wairoa Council will continue to provide assistance to Education and support provided community groups, marae, and schools with regard to the provision of safe and clean water

2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment 4 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

2.2.2 Wastewater

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015 The provision of additional treatment to the Complete Wairoa wastewater system with the installation of tertiary treatment in 2007/2008 at an estimated cost of $150,000 The upgrading of the Tuai wastewater system in Complete 2006/2007 at an estimated cost of $200,000 Complete CCTV inspection of reticulated network Ongoing with specific condition monitoring and determine maintenance and renewal budgets in 2015 AMP / LTP to determine cost requirements effective renewals programme. Implement measures to minimise overloads and Ongoing as part of infiltration and inflow contamination caused by cross connections, investigations and remedial works (provision in stormwater infiltration to sanitary sewers and 2015 LTP and AMP) flooding of sewage pump stations Implement a community wide education Education and support provided programme over a multitude of interfaces (such as leaflets, schools, internet, and local newspapers) Investigate treatment options for existing and Mahia and Opoutama wastewater treatment new developments in the future systems now in operation Feasibility study underway for the Wairoa Treatment Plant Upgrade / Replacement required as current discharge consent expires in 2019

2.2.3 Stormwater

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015 Determine and implement a program to collect Ongoing with specific condition monitoring detailed data for stormwater assets (eg budgets in 2015 AMP / LTP to determine cost condition) effective renewals programme Continue CCTV inspection of reticulated network and determine maintenance and renewal requirements Implement measures to minimise stormwater contamination caused by cross connections, stormwater infiltration to sanitary sewers and flooding of sewage pump stations Implement capital and renewal works programme To be developed from condition assessments / to mitigate peak flows and adverse effects of monitoring stormwater runoff Protection and classification of overland Part of asset data collection programme (refer flowpaths as public drains Improvement plan in 2015 Stormwater AMP) Implement a community wide education Education and support provided programme over a multitude of interfaces (such as leaflets, schools, internet, and local newspapers Investigate stormwater treatment options for Assessed with new works existing and new developments in the future Will be partly guided by resource consent once Implement Best Practice Options (BPO’s) for granted new developments

2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment 5 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

2.2.4 Cemeteries

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015 Concrete headstone beams and footpaths within Ongoing the Wairoa, Nuhaka and Ruakituri cemeteries on an as needed basis Pursue the needs identified for a cemetery in Provision made in 2015 AMP and LTP (deferred Mahia from 2011 LTP) Continue to identify burial sites that are at risk As identified from coastal erosion, and communicate with the appropriate owners to ascertain if appropriate action is being proposed to ensure public health & cultural issues are being addressed

2.2.5 Public Toilets

2005 WSSA PROPOSAL STATUS 2015 Council will continue to monitor demand within Ongoing the district, and particularly in the Mahia area Facility upgrades identified in 2015 AMP / LTP Develop an Asset Management Plan for the Included in 2015 Parks and Reserves AMP management of public toilets

2.2.6 Waste Management

Due to the adoption of a Waste Management Plan prior to adoption of the 2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment, it was not necessary to complete a separate assessment for solid waste management.

The 2005 Waste Management Plan has since been superseded by the 2012 Waste Management and Minimisation Plan as required under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008.

2005 Water and Sanitary Services Assessment 6 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

3 LEGISLATION, STATUTORY GUIDELINES & OTHER KEY STRATEGIC DOCUMENTS

3.1 OVERVIEW

The management and future planning for water and sanitary services in the Wairoa District are potentially influenced by a number of inter-related planning, statutory, legislative, management and guideline documents. Key documents are summarised in the following table:

STATUS RELEVANT DOCUMENTS

 Local Government Act 2002  Health Act 1956 Legislation  Resource Management Act 1991  Burial and Cremation Act 1964  Council’s Long Term Plan  HBRC Regional Resource Management Plan and Coastal Environment Plan - includes the Regional Policy Statement (RPS) and sets out a policy framework for managing resource use activities in an integrated manner across the whole of the Hawke's Bay region. Statutory Documents  Wairoa District Plan - contains guidance and rules about how you can use and develop your land  Council Policy & Bylaws  National Environmental Standards  Drinking water standards  Iwi and Hapū Resource Management Plans  Asset Management Plans Planning, management and  Water Safety Plans operational documents  Waste Management and Minimisation Plan  Engineering Code of Practice

3.2 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2002

The Local Government Act 2002 (LGA) has brought about some significant changes to the way councils operate, with the focus being on community consultation and participation in local government and the promotion of social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeing of communities in the present and in the future.

One of the requirements under the LGA is to undertake an Assessment of Water and Sanitary Services including:

. Water supply . Wastewater treatment and disposal . Stormwater drainage . Cemeteries and crematoria . Public Toilets . Solid Waste Management (ref Waste Management and Minimisation Plan)

Under the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill No.3, Section 125 of the LGA 2002 states that:

Legislation, Statutory Guidelines and Other Key Strategic Doucments 7 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

‘A Territorial Authority must, from time to time, assess the provision within its District of a) Water supply b) Other sanitary services’

The Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3) inserts a new section 126 which outlines the purpose of the assessments as:

3.3 HEALTH ACT 1956

3.3.1 General

Part 2, Section 23 of the Health Act 1956 outlines the general powers and duties of local authorities and states:

“…it shall be the duty of every local authority to improve, promote and protect public health within its district…”

Section 25 further outlines the duties of the local authority to provide sanitary works (inclusive of the services to be assessed under section 125 of the LGA 2002) and identifies that from time to time the Minister (by notice in the Gazette) may require any local authority to provide sanitary works, or to alter or extend any sanitary works previously provided by the local authority.

Under Section 29 of the Health Act 1956, Council also has the powers to act should any sanitary convenience not meet the reasonable needs of the community/users or be offensive or is likely to be “injurious to health”. This includes private facilities not owned, operated or managed by Council.

3.3.2 The Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Act 2007

This Act amended the Health Act to require all drinking water suppliers providing water to more than 500 people to develop and start to implement a Public Health Risk Management Plan (now a Water Safety Plan) to guide the safe management of the supply.

3.4 DRINKING WATER STANDARDS FOR NEW ZEALAND 2005 (REVISED 2008)

The Drinking Water Standards New Zealand 2005 (DWSNZ) governs the quality of water that is provided and sets the maximum allowable concentrations of potentially harmful contaminants that may be present in the water. The DWSNZ set criteria for monitoring of supplies and also gives general direction on remedial action where standards are breached.

The standards are applicable to large and small supplies (as defined under the standards) - and also to public and private supplies.

Legislation, Statutory Guidelines and Other Key Strategic Doucments 8 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

3.5 LONG TERM PLAN (LTP)

Council’s LTP identifies the following strategic goals for water and sanitary service provision in the District:

Water Supply: to comply with the New Zealand Drinking Water Standards

Wastewater: Reliable and safe collection and disposal of sewage’

Stormwater: Effective and efficient management of collection and disposal of stormwater to ensure that the capacity of available facilities are optimised and that the environment is not compromised.

Solid Waste Management: Reliable and safe collection and disposal of waste

Cemeteries: Reliable and safe management and operation of public cemeteries

Parks & Reserves Continued access to and sustainable management of (includes public toilets) parks and reserves

Legislation, Statutory Guidelines and Other Key Strategic Doucments 9 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

4 OVERVIEW OF THE WAIROA DISTRICT

4.1 GEOGRAPHIC CONTEXT

The Wairoa district in Northern Hakes Bay covers an area of about 4,118 square kilometres with approximately 130 kilometres of coastline.

The majority of the district is hill country merging with mountains in the west, often dissected with gorges. Areas of coastal and river flats of versatile soils give greater variety to the landscape.

Wairoa includes a vast range of landscapes from the Te Urewera National Park and Lake Waikaremoana to the surf and fishing beaches of the Mahia Peninsula, the hot springs at Morere and the riverside town of Wairoa. There are numerous lakes, rivers and wetlands, several of national importance such as the Wairoa, Mohaka and Nuhaka Rivers and the Whakaki Lagoon.

4.2 POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS

4.2.1 Population Figures

The Wairoa District has less than 1% of the country’s total population and is ranked 62nd in size of the 67 districts in New Zealand

Overview of the Wairoa District 10 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Figure 4.2a: Population trends in Wairoa District (1986 to 2013)

Wairoa Population 1986 - 2013 12000

10000 10104 10128 9900 8000 8916 8481 7890 6000

Population 4000

2000

0 1986 1991 1996 2001 2006 2013 Year

Between 1996 and 2013, there was a notable decline in both the under 15 and 15-39 age group. Since 2006, there has also been a steady decline in the 40-64 age group which had been increasing until then. There continues to be a steady increase in the 65 and over age group.

Births continue to outnumber deaths in the Wairoa District although projections show that gap to reduce. The main cause of overall population decline is therefore out-migration.

Figure 4.2b: Projected Population Growth Forecasts in Wairoa District (1996 - 2031)

Estimated and Projected Populations – Wairoa District (info from Statistics NZ) Population 12,000

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

0 1996 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 At 30 June Census usually resident population count Estimated resident population Low population projection Medium population projection High population projection

Source: Statistics New Zealand

As shown above, population growth forecasts project a declining population in Wairoa will continue. A decline in the youth population and significant increases in older people as a

Overview of the Wairoa District 11 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

proportion of the total Wairoa population is also predicted. It is estimated that over 1 in 4 residents will be over the age of 65 in 2031.

4.2.2 Demographics

The population in the Wairoa District is highly clustered. Approximately half of the population lives in the Wairoa Township and its surrounding suburbs, while a further 30% live in smaller coastal communities. The largest ‘inland’ communities are Frasertown and Tuai. The inland north-western portion of the District is part of Te Urewera National Park and is relatively unpopulated

The district can be broken down into the following centres:

Centre Population % of District (2013 Census) Wairoa 4053 51.4 Mahia 720 9.1 Raupunga/Mohaka 627 7.9 Frasertown 252 3.2 Nuhaka 261 3.3 Tuai 219 2.8 Whakaki 732 9.3 Ruakitri/Morere 705 8.9 Maungataniwha 318 4.0

Popular holiday spots, such as Mahanga and Mahia experience large seasonal population fluctuations where numbers can increase to approximately 10,000 over the summer months.

Approximately 60% of the population identifies as belonging to the Maori ethnic group compared to 15% nationally. There are 33 Marae in the district and in many areas these form the focal point of the village, incorporating groups of surrounding dwellings and multiple title ownership.

The median age is 38.9 years which is consistent with the national median of 38 years. However 15.6% of the Wairoa population is 65 or older compared to 14.3% nationally and 24.6% of the population is under 15 compared to 20.4% nationally.

4.3 DISTRICT ECONOMY

Pastoral farming is a significant part of the local economy along with forestry, horticulture and cropping. The Wairoa Township functions as a service centre for the farming sector through manufacturing and processing.

Agriculture, forestry and fishing are the largest employers in the District (26.8% compared to 5.7% nationally) with manufacturing at 21.5%.

Like many rural communities in New Zealand, Wairoa has suffered in recent years as a result of its remoteness and reliance on sheep, beef and forestry.

Overview of the Wairoa District 12 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

4.4 WAIROA ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS

4.4.1 Water Resources and Uses

The average annual rainfall for most of the Wairoa District is in the order of 1500mm (NIWA website).

There are many streams and rivers in the District; these are dominated by two major river systems – the Wairoa and the Mohaka. There are also two major lakes - Lake Waikaremoana and Lake Waikareiti, as well as a number of wetlands, in particular Whakaki Lagoon, and coastal environments in the Wairoa District which contain significant natural and ecological values and also have high cultural and spiritual values.

There are also two key productive aquifers in the Wairoa District underlying the areas around Wairoa Township and the Mahia-Nuhaka areas.

Uses of the District’s water resources are varied and include:

. Water takes (rainfall, aquifers, rivers, streams and lakes); . Discharge assimilation (stormwater and treated wastewaters); . Recreational uses including fishing, boating, paddling, swimming, water sports and passive recreation (e.g. bird watching) . Food gathering (fishing, shellfish gathering etc); and . Power generation.

4.4.2 Hydro Geological Issues

Aquifer systems have been identified in the Wairoa Township, Nuhaka and Mahia areas. Limited investigations have indicated that shallow, unconfined aquifer systems, at a depth range of 10 to 15 metres, are located in coastal areas and areas of semi-confined and confined aquifer systems, at a depth range of 20 to 30 metres, occur further inland. In recent years a number of bores have been drilled, particularly in Wairoa and Nuhaka, which tap deep confined aquifers below 40 metre depths. Geological maps of the Wairoa District indicate that within the area lie three general types of sedimentary rocks. Consolidated Silt & Mudstones in Require deep bores (40m – 100m +) to gain enough the Mahia and Tuai areas groundwater for good supply qualities Inappropriate for wastewater system discharges to ground Semi-consolidated Sandstones in Medium depth bores for good water supply resource the coastal settlements from (40m +). Wairoa south to Mohaka Inappropriate for wastewater system discharges to ground with potential to cause local pollution of shallow groundwater or stream drinking water supplies Unconsolidated sediment sand Generally shallow groundwater systems (5-40m) that dunes and gravel beds along the may provide both high quality and high quantity costal zones and within river valleys groundwater supplies Efficient wastewater disposal opportunities Susceptible to pollution due to their unconfined nature

Overview of the Wairoa District 13 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

For the Wairoa District careful management of community water supplies and wastewater discharge processes will be required - in particular, in areas where development has occurred on unconsolidated sediments and unconfined aquifer systems as the conflicting resource uses in these areas presents a public health risk.

Overview of the Wairoa District 14 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

5 WATER SUPPLY ASSESSMENT

5.1 BRIEF OUTLINE OF ACTIVITY

The long term focus for Water Reticulation is to continue to own, operate and maintain Council’s three water networks in Wairoa / Frasertown, Tuai and Mahanga in order to provide water, meet growth needs within the supply areas, effectively manage risks associated with public water supply and minimise issues with public health and safety. (It is noted that, following public feedback, the alternative option of decommissioning the Mahanga supply will be considered through a referendum prior to making any final decision).

Council is also considering the development of a public supply to service the Mahia Beach Township, an area that sees high seasonal fluctuations in population, as high as 10,000 over the Christmas and New Year period.

For privately owned facilities it is expected that the owners/managers of those facilities will ensure the provision of safe, clean water

With regard to schools and marae in the District not on public supply, Council will continue to work alongside these bodies to facilitate and provide services where they may be required (e.g. laboratory testing of water).

A summary of Council’s water supply activity is given below:

WAIROA & The treated water supply for Wairoa, Frasertown Infrastructure includes FRASERTOWN and the peri-urban area of Wairoa is sourced  river intake and treatment from the Waiau River and processed in the Water plant, Treatment Plant in Frasertown. Water is treated using a standard coagulation treatment plant  76.7 km of reticulation with including, settlement, flocculation, clarification, 5.4km of reticulation at filtration, chlorination and UV prior to Frasertown and 18km of reticulation. reticulation in the Wairoa peri- urban area. The Wairoa reticulation system services a mix  3 reservoirs at Kaimoana of residential, commercial and light industrial Road with a capacity of properties. From the treatment plant water is 3000m3 and the 2 reservoirs relayed to three low level storage reservoirs at Tawhara with 2500m3 located on Kaimoana Road and from there, the capacity (due for replacement water for the Wairoa Town supply is fed to 2015/16). reservoirs on Tawhara Hill. The majority of existing water reticulation in Wairoa was  reservoir at Frasertown with established after 1970 with some installed as 13m3 capacity early as the 1940’s.  pump station at Wairoa boundary TUAI The Tuai supply is sourced from the Waimako Infrastructure includes: spring. The original mains were installed  6.0 km of reticulation between 1940 and 1950.  3 reservoirs each with a the Tuai supply was upgraded in 2012/ in order capacity of 13m3 to meet the drinking water standards ($250,000 upgrade, with 85% of funds coming from central government)

MAHANGA The Mahanga supply comes from a shallow bore Infrastructure includes: located in farmland and is untreated. However, it  km of reticulation, was originally intended only as a supplementary non-potable supply and  1 reservoir with a capacity of firefighting. Much of the community is also on 13m3 rainwater.  1 pump station. All new development requires its own water supply system

PRIVATE Approximately 50% of the population relies on private individual water supply services to some extent. From Census information, occupied dwelling statistics Water Supply Assessment 15 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

SUPPLIES suggest there are approximately 1,400 dwellings with private water supplies in the Wairoa District. Private water supplies in the Wairoa District rely on water from a variety of sources including river, stream, spring and bore takes and collection of roof water (with supplementation from private suppliers of town supply water). Limited data is currently available on the proportional usage of these sources however it is understood that bore water tends to be the primary source of water in the coastal settlements with rainwater as an alternative source (Section 1.1.5 WDC District Plan 2001).

In terms of water supply, the District can be broken up into the following communities:

GROUPING COMMUNITY WDC Serviced Communities Wairoa Township & Peri-urban area Frasertown Tuai Mahanga (non-potable) Non-serviced Pop. density Mahia Beach Communities >20/km2 Nuhaka Raupunga-Mohaka Pop. density 2 Rural communities <20/km

5.1.1 Resource Consents

There is no specific consent relating to Water Reticulation however the following table sets out current resource consents held by Council for their Water Takes (plus discharge of silt and sludge from the treatment plant back to the river).

Table 5.1: Current Resource Consents for Water Supply

CONSENT NUMBER PURPOSE EXPIRY WP100084T Take water from spring to supply Tuai Village 2024 Max rate of take 4.6 litres/sec Max vol. 2800 m3 in any 7 day period, 11200 m³ in 28 days

WP070611T Take underground water to provide supply to a residential 2024 subdivision and public toilet at Mahanga (Bore No. 2966 – 180mm dia). Max rate of take 2 litres/sec Max volume to be taken 1210 m3 in any 7 day period

WP110405T Take water from Waiau River 2032 Max rate 200 litres/sec Max vol. 16000 m3/day

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5.2 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ABSENCE OF OR DEFICIENCY IN WATER SUPPLY SERVICES.

5.2.1 Overview

As part of the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), under Section 126 (a) of the LGA 2002 Council is required to assess the adequacy of water and other sanitary services within the District in relation to the health risk to communities arising from the absence of or deficiency in water services.

Safe drinking water is a fundamental requirement for everyone.

Risk in relation to water supply is addressed through a number of documents by Council:  This WSSA (health risk focus)  The Water Supply Asset Management Plan (asset management focus)  Water Safety Plan (health risk focus)  Risk Register (from corporate to operational risk)

5.2.2 Risk Management Process

The Asset Management Plan and Water Safety Plans identify the risk events, the likelihood of those risks occurring and the consequences of those risks should they occur.

Risk = Likelihood (1-5) x Consequence (1-5)

The higher the risk, the higher the priority for dealing with that risk through elimination, minimisation or mitigation. Risk ranking allows Council to target the treatment of the risk exposure, beginning with the highest priority risks.

As well as producing documents specifically related to the management of risk (aim to eliminate, minimise or mitigate), Council has Contingency Plans in place for each of the networks to provide courses of action should a ‘significant event’ occur such as an unexpected disruption to the supply of water.

5.2.3 Health Risks related to Water Supply

There are three areas within a water supply that can affect public health:

Source Pollution  Wastewater and rural surface water discharges into streams or Public and private polluting groundwater supplies  Contamination at take point such as:  Unprotected bore well heads,  Open spring intake structures  Dirty roofs with overhanging vegetation Lack of or Failure of  No treatment of supply treatment systems  Insufficient boiling of water where no treatment Public and private  Insufficient chlorination of tanks supplies  Poorly maintained treatment systems  Extremely turbid water affecting effectiveness of treatment Contamination in  Ingress of contaminants into reticulation, typically through pipes or Reticulation joints. More typically Public  Ingress of contaminants during maintenance repairs supplies

Water Supply Assessment 17 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

As part of this assessment, the key health risks associated with public and private supplies, the recommended management of those risks and Council’s current status in dealing with the risks are outlined in the table below:

RISK DESCRIPTION RECOMMENDED CURRENT STATUS COMMENT MANAGEMENT OF RISK

PUBLIC / RETICULATED SUPPLIES

Sickness via  Minimise overflows  Water Safety  Likelihood of this risk internally introduced  provide containment, Plans in place* occurring is rare if contamination in assets maintained in  minimise infiltration,  In accordance reticulated supply with the 2015 accordance with the  investigate cross AMP, renewals AMP. connections, programme  Public education  public education based on important condition Sickness via  Identify potential  Consequences assessments to externally external factors that (sickness) can be be developed and introduced could affect the major. implemented contamination in supply including at reticulated supply source,  seek to mitigate,  public education Sickness due to  Identify problem  Investigation of  Risk is reduced if an poor sanitation areas and seek to options for alternative supply resulting from mitigate adverse alternative supply source in place supply failure effects for Wairoa  Supply reinstated  Contingency planning provided for in quicker if appropriate 2015 AMP contingency planning  Contingency  Consequences Plans in place for (sickness) can be public supplies major Inadequate  Wairoa and Tuai -  Wairoa and Tuai  Consequences of not pressure to fight fire Maintain systems to both have being able to cope be able to cope with adequate fire- with fire-fighting can demand should fire fighting pressure be major occur  Some provision in  Water fed by gravity  Mahanga - Create 2015 AMP for from Tawhara tank more head, larger Mahanga capital so not dependent on diameter pipes, works – however power (tanks increase water some support for currently being storage decommissioning upgraded to ensure of supply minimum 24 hours storage) PRIVATE / NON-RETICULATED SUPPLIES

Sickness via  Educate property  Ongoing Public education and externally owners to ensure education continued enforcement of introduced protection of the  Building consent relevant regulations will contamination in water supply or process for new reduce the risk non-reticulated testing new water buildings supply supplies.  Treatment for new residences with roof supplies Sickness due to  Ensuring Tanker supplies in poor sanitation supplementary place resulting from supplies are available supply failure to the District.  Education and

Water Supply Assessment 18 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

RISK DESCRIPTION RECOMMENDED CURRENT STATUS COMMENT MANAGEMENT OF RISK

provision of contact details for suppliers Inadequate supply  Identify and make Ongoing education Education will reduce risk to fight fire known potential and information sources of bulk supply (e.g. dams and rivers) * Refer Section 5.2.5 below

5.2.4 At-Risk Communities

Outside the limits of Council’s water supply networks, communities, mainly rural, rely on private water sources. These are the groups considered most at-risk, potentially drinking untreated or poorly treated water.

The majority of private water supplies are not restricted by the RMA (Section 14[3b]), being for an individual’s ‘reasonable domestic use’ and are therefore not directly controlled by the HBRC Regional Plan rules and do not require resource consent.

While roof water and deep bore supplies are typically of reasonable quality, any surface water take including streams, rivers, springs and shallow bores (from unconfined aquifers) are at a greater risk of contamination in the District and therefore any water taken from these sources for potable uses should be treated. The minimum treatment level recommended by Public Health is boiling of water. Manual dosing with chlorine is also another low-tech, low cost option that can be used. However, it may be difficult to boil sufficient water for all potable uses and manual-chlorination needs to be regularly done with pH levels maintained between 6 and 8 pH units to ensure activity and efficacy of the chlorine.

Local populations tend to have natural immunity, however the elderly, the very young, those who are sick or have a depressed immune system as well as visitors may be more susceptible to illness from waterborne pathogens.

Any new residences constructed in the public network areas are supplied with an adequate and safe piped supply. Any new residence outside a public network area is required, as part of the building consent process, to provide for water supply to that residence.

5.2.5 Water Safety Plans (WSP)

Water Safety Plans (formerly Public Health Risk Management Plans) are a requirement of the Drinking Water Standards for supplies that service more than 500 people. The purpose of the WSPs are to allow organisations to take a proactive approach to drinking water quality and to guard against risks before they occur, providing greater certainty for the provision of clean, safe water.

Council has prepared WSPs (2014) for all public supplies: Wairoa/Frasertown, Tuai and Mahanga.

Some of the key improvement areas (deemed as very high or high risk) identified for each of the supplies in the WSPs are as follows:

IMPROVEMENT AREA STATUS / COMMENT

WAIROA / FRASERTOWN Update Operations and Maintenance Manual In progress ensuring all procedures, inspections and monitoring addressed especially with plant

Water Supply Assessment 19 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

IMPROVEMENT AREA STATUS / COMMENT upgrades in recent years. Condition of mainline / intake pipe Condition assessment required and renewals / upgrade as appropriate (provision in 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan) Alternative supply source Provision in 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan for investigations Reduction of high pressure in town supply Will reduce leakage Additional storage at Tawahara at lower elevation (planned 2016-2018) should reduce pressure Condition assessment of electrical equipment Safety issues – regular checks undertaken at the Frasertown treatment plant

MAHANGA Option to combine both supplies (currently two Investigations to provide treated supply provided for in separate bores) 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan Barriers to microbiological contamination Referendum to be held prior to any final decisions to determine whether supply to be upgraded or decommissioned

TUAI Leakage in the reticulation Loss of water Condition assessments / renewals programme provided for in 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan Ingress of water into storage tanks Potential contamination, sealing required Alternative supply options Discussions with local power station Protection of pipeline across bridge Protection against disruption in supply To be addressed through condition assessments

The WSPs also include Contingency Plans for each supply, detailing actions in the case of an unexpected / emergency event that may affect the health risk potential of the supply.

5.3 QUALITY OF SERVICES

As part of the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), under Section 126 (b) of the LGA 2002 Council is required to assess the adequacy of water and other sanitary services within the District in relation to the quality of services provided.

5.3.1 Levels of Service

Council, through the 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan, has set levels of service and performance measures related to the delivery of a ‘quality service’. Those identified as ‘Customer’ levels of service are:

CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT) Council will own, operate All domestic householders and non- Some changes in levels of and maintain reliable domestic premises connected to the performance measures with new drinking water systems water supply systems will be AMP but in summary: serving Wairoa, provided with a service that provides  Work undertaken by Frasertown, Tuai and them with a reliable supply of Contractors is completed as Mahanga, protecting drinking water

Water Supply Assessment 20 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT) public health Community’s willingness to pay for required the service will be considered  No issues with smell and taste The provision of facilities shall be of water adequate for current and  Water pressure is maintained foreseeable demand  Only five instances of Customer’s water pressure will be unplanned water supply maintained disruption Customers will receive a Level of customer satisfaction 92% of the respondents in the prompt and efficient through annual survey indicates a annual public satisfaction survey service ‘fairly good’, ‘very good’ or better rate the service as 'fairly good' or 'better' Council shall respond to faults / Changes in levels of performance interruptions in the network measures with new AMP (new reticulation (within specified mandatory performance timeframes depending on urgency measures) of the issue) Number of queries / complaints The total number of complaints received in 2013/14 was 254 (244 received annually shall not exceed: in 2012/13 and 256 in 2011/12)  20 for clarity  20 for taste  20 for odour  40 for pressure or flow  40 for continuity of supply, and  20 for response to issues, expressed per 1000 connections

‘Technical’ levels of service are also set to ensure a quality service delivery in relation to the effective management of the assets through condition assessments and efficient renewals planning and programming.

Under the Local Government Act 2002, Government has set a number of non-financial ‘mandatory performance measures’. These are aimed towards the safety of the service as well as the cost-effectiveness which is applicable to this WSSA. For water these performance measures relate to:

 Safety of Drinking Water - how Council complies with the DWSNZ  Maintenance of the reticulation network – how much water is lost through leakage  Fault Response times dependent on urgency of the fault  Customer Satisfaction based on the number of complaints received  Demand Management and how much water is consumed

Each of these performance measures has been incorporated into Council’s levels of service for the water supply activity under the 2015 Asset Management Plan and the Long Term Plan

Specific targets are then set for the next three years (the life of the Long Term Plan) in relation to each performance measure. These targets are all reported against in Council’s Annual Report.

Water Supply Assessment 21 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

5.3.2 Delivery of Service Levels

Council implements service levels for water reticulation operations through its operational contract, supervised and administered by Council’s Engineering department, which is predominantly performance-based other than emergency and Reactive works which are generally undertaken as dayworks. Tuai and Mahanga are also covered under this contract on a reactive basis. The ‘Maintenance of the Wairoa Water Reticulation Systems’ contract currently has a 3 year base contract and 1 + 1 year renewals subject to performance. This contract is due for renewal in 2015 when the most appropriate method of service delivery will be reviewed.

Water production / treatment is primarily maintained by in house staff. However, as needed, contractors are engaged to undertake maintenance and repair work either under dayworks provisions of the reticulation maintenance contract or through Council’s procurement procedures for more significant or specialist works.

It is noted that under Section 17A of the LGA Act 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), there are new requirements for the assessment of the cost-effectiveness of current infrastructure service delivery arrangements. With the new mandatory performance measures being introduced into the levels of service and the timing of the end of the current contract, this should be undertaken prior to re-tendering of the contract.

5.3.3 Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction can be used as an indication of the quality of the service and of the water supplied.

Council provides a Customer Service Request (CSR) system whereby customers can phone in, email, write a letter or lodge a request in person. From a record of queries and complaints relating to water supply through the CSR system) since 2009/10, the following table shows the number of CSRs received each year for water supply:

Year 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

No. CSRs 306 118 254 244

The types of issues related to the water activity typically include;

 Leaking hydrants, meters and parts of the system,  Replacements needed for toby covers, valves and broken meters,  No water and or pressure,  Taste and look,  To information services (reading, location and reporting incidents).

Council has targets to reach when receiving requests for service which are monitored and reported on yearly in the Annual Report. This includes a target for reducing the number of CSRs each year which has been achieved over the last three (3) years.

Council also undertakes an Annual Survey to assist in the assessment of customer satisfaction and more importantly to monitor trends over time.

Overall, the results for 2012/13 showed that 68% of Wairoa residents (survey includes those connected to public system as well as those on private supply) are satisfied with their water supply (compared to 60% in 2012), 9% are not very satisfied and 23% were

Water Supply Assessment 22 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

unable to comment. It is also noted that 95% of residents who are connected to the water supply are satisfied with the service.

The data shows that the public is, overall, satisfied with Council’s delivery of this service and those that are ‘very satisfied’ continues to increase.

5.3.4 Wairoa, Frasertown and Wairoa Peri-Urban Supply

The supply for the Wairoa Township is sourced from the Waiau River near Frasertown from where it is pumped to the treatment plant on Stout Street in Frasertown.

In terms of quality of service specific to this supply:  Disruption to service is addressed through a Contingency Plan  the water from the Frasertown treatment plant is sampled regularly and to date has shown excellent bacteriological results  Capacity of the reticulation is deemed adequate for the foreseeable future.  Limited available data and more information is required regarding asset condition. Further information gathering is included in the 2015 Asset Management Plan’s improvement plan  The Tawhara reservoir tanks are prone to leakage and their elevation gives a high pressure in the reticulation, also contributing to leakage in the network. Provision has been made for their replacement, commencing 2015/16. It is anticipated that their lower elevation will address some leakage in the reticulation through reducing pressures.

5.3.5 Mahanga Beach Supply

The supply at Mahanga serves as a supplementary non-potable supply with much of community on rainwater.

In terms of quality of service specific to this supply:  Disruption to service is addressed through a Contingency Plan  As a ‘small’ service (DWSNZ), there is no minimum storage requirement. However, the condition of the tank is good for its age and the capacity is considered adequate for its intended purpose  Some concerns regards pressure for firefighting requirements.  The pump also has no backup in case of failure so there is no standby electricity if the mains supply fails (it is susceptible to outages) affecting the service at times. Most properties are also serviced by rainwater

All new development is required to provide its own water supply system.

5.3.6 Tuai Supply

In terms of quality of service specific to this supply:  Disruption to service is addressed through a Contingency Plan  The treatment plant was upgraded in 2012 and, as such, is deemed adequate for the foreseeable future  Reticulation is also deemed adequate with sufficient pressure for firefighting.  Condition assessments will better determine the need for renewals in the next 30 years.

Water Supply Assessment 23 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

5.3.7 Quality of Private Water Supplies

Council has minimal control over private supplies with the quality of the service being the responsibility of the owner.

Many private supplies do not have adequate supply in terms of firefighting and, in these cases, Council aims to provide information on sources of water for such events.

5.4 CURRENT AND FUTURE DEMAND

5.4.1 Overview

As part of the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), under Section 126 (c) of the LGA 2002 Council is required to assess the adequacy of water and other sanitary services within the District in relation to current and estimated future demand.

Being a largely rural population, it is not practical to suggest that the whole District can have a reticulated water supply.

Growth in demand for quantity of supply is predicted to be minimal. Where demand is increasing, there is typically a desire or requirement for improved quality of water. This is primarily related to legislative requirements with, for example, the introduction of mandatory drinking water standards which may have significant cost implications for some small communities. This has been shown, for example, through the UV upgrade required to comply with the Health (Drinking Water Amendment) Act 2007

5.4.2 Wairoa Township, Peri-urban area and Frasertown

Demand for the water supply activity is primarily based on the volume of water consumed. There are in the order of 1750-1800 connections to this supply. On an annual basis, demand (in the past) is in the ratio of approximately 52% residential and 48% industrial (primarily the AFFCO meatworks). However both residential and industrial demand go through seasonal, weekly and diurnal cycles and therefore there are times when the industrial demand reaches more than 70% of total.

Growth in demand for quantity of supply is predicted to be minimal. However, resilience issues do need consideration to ensure that the demand can be met at all times as the Wairoa supply is dependent on a single source. This is addressed in the 2015 Asset Management Plan and Long Term Plan.

Available information to date suggests the majority of the reticulation has adequate capacity for current and future demand with the Tawhara tanks scheduled for renewals work to ensure 24 hours storage.

The Frasertown storage tanks, supplemented with tank water, are considered adequate for its primary function as a low-pressure supplementary potable supply. The provision of additional storage for the future is not considered a high priority by Council.

In summary, Council considers the infrastructure in Wairoa and Frasertown adequate for the short term and for the intended uses although options for an alternative source should be investigated.

5.4.3 Tuai Village

The Tuai population of less than 300 serviced by Council’s water supply has remained relatively stable and is not expected to experience significant growth in the foreseeable future. As such, growth in demand for quantity of supply is predicted to be minimal.

Water Supply Assessment 24 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

The tanks are relatively young and in good condition. The capacity of the 3 storage tanks meet the minimum standards of 24 hrs storage and are considered adequate. With regard to the reticulation, capacity is deemed adequate as is firefighting pressure.

5.4.4 Mahanga Beach Settlement

The supply at Mahanga is only intended as a supplementary non-potable supply and much of community is also on rainwater. It supplies a population in excess of 30 people which increases significantly over the summer period.

As the Mahanga supply is only intended to be a supplementary supply there is no minimum storage requirement. The condition of the tank is good for its age and the capacity is considered adequate, however there is concern over the pressure for firefighting requirements.

Council is now required, under legislation, to either decommission the supply or upgrade it to meet DWSNZ. Further to community feedback, a decision on this will be made once a referendum has been held.

5.4.5 Mahia Beach

Whilst the resident population growth overall is declining in the District, the Mahia Peninsula supports a large holiday season population. There has also been some residential development since the 2005 WSSA.

There is no public water supply scheme in Mahia, with a dependence on roof systems and bores for the collection and supply of water for potable and other uses. The Mahia Heights subdivision in the Mahia Beach Township is supplied through a localised scheme, owned and operated through the property owners and developer.

Council intends to investigate the demand for a public supply in this area.

5.4.6 Other Communities for Future Consideration

Council is aware of some communities that are needing to supplement roof and bore supplies. These include:  Opoutama (spring fed supplementary system)  Kopuawhara (historical railway supply)  Raupunga (historical railway supply) Whilst population is unlikely to grow in these areas, an investigation of current demand in relationship to the size of the community and an assessment of options for needs in the future may become appropriate in the future. Opoutama supports an increase in population over the summer months and is now serviced with a public wastewater scheme which may affect the demand for a public water supply in the future.

With regard to isolated communities, the future demand is not expected to change with regard to non-reticulated water services

5.4.7 Assessment of Future Needs

The key drivers for current and future demand for water supply are as follows:  The declining population means ‘the consumption of the service is potentially decreasing’ whilst operational costs associated with quality requirements will likely remain the same or may increase due to changes in legislation

Water Supply Assessment 25 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

 Where a lack of alternative sources of supply combined with density of development bring about or cause to bring about a risk to public health through lack of water potability then communal treatment and reticulation systems shall be provided.  Problems resulting in a lack of supply capacity will be addressed so that affected customers have a service that is reliable and able to meet the requirements of domestic/commercial/industrial use and firefighting.  If there is deemed to be a deficiency in the water supply that results in a public health risk then Council will investigate the provision of a reticulated system or explore other suitable options,  New properties not connected to the public network will be required to install treatment devices as per the requirements of the Building Act,  Where insufficient storage capacity has been identified, Council will move to ensure a supply is available to protect public health and well-being during a civil emergency,  Council will monitor growth in the District, with particular regard given to the Mahia Peninsula,  Council will continue to provide assistance to community groups, marae, and schools with regard to the provision of safe and clean water

Key capital works that have been programmed over the next 30 years to address demand include:

WORKS DESCRIPTION TIMEFRAME BUDGET Provision for Treatment Upgrade Mahanga Supply (subject to results of referendum to be 2016-2019 $200,000 held after re-organisation poll) Alternative Supply Provision for alternative supply source 2025-2035 $250,000 Source and treatment for Wairoa resilience Mahia Beach Investigations/consultation/feasibility 2025-2035 $100,000 investigations for new water supply at Mahia Beach

These capital works are also supported by a renewals programme to ensure assets are adequately maintained to meet current and future demand.

5.5 COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATORY STANDARDS

5.5.1 Overview

As part of the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), under Section 126 (d) of the LGA 2002 Council is required to assess the adequacy of water and other sanitary services within the District in relation to compliance with relevant regulatory standards.

Specific problems, which may affect the quality and adequacy of the water supply, in relation to regulatory standards, include:

PROBLEMS AFFECTING QUALITY AND ADEQUACY OF WATER COMMENT SUPPLY Contamination in . At joins or cracks from deterioration Contamination in public reticulation or . From damage to pipes through stock supplies reduced through: storage access . Improved asset . Contamination at take point such as management (through unprotected bore well heads or open 2015 AMP) spring intake structures . Resource consents and compliance with conditions Water Supply Assessment 26 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

PROBLEMS AFFECTING QUALITY AND ADEQUACY OF WATER COMMENT SUPPLY . Implementation of Water Safety Plans Backflow . Unprotected entry to water storage,  Contamination in public contamination allowing animal ingress supplies reduced through . From water lines supplying stock Water Safety Plans troughs  Enforcement of bylaws

Lack of treatment or . No treatment used,  Implementation of Water failure of treatment . Insufficient Free Available Chlorine Safety Plans for public systems (FAC) to disinfect tank supplies, supplies . Insufficient boiling capacity for needs,  No formal controls over private supplies – . Poorly maintained filters or UV education important systems, . Turbid water affecting UV  Building consent process effectiveness, for new and upgraded properties will require appropriate water supply Lack of education & . Health risks Council provides ongoing information on: . Protection of systems education and support to communities not serviced by a . Maintenance of systems public service . Treatment methods

5.5.2 Legislation

The Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand 2005 (revised 2008) governs the quality of water that is provided and sets the maximum allowable concentrations of potentially harmful contaminants that may be present in the water. The standards set criteria for monitoring of supplies and also gives general direction on remedial action where standards are breached. The standards are applicable to Wairoa and to Tuai (minor and small supplies) but Mahanga, being classed as a neighbourhood supply, is exempt from the standards.

The Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Act 2007 requires all drinking water suppliers* to:  take all practicable steps to comply with the (previously voluntary) drinking-water Standards, and  where providing water to more than 500 people, to develop and start to implement a Public Health Risk Management Plan (now a Water Safety Plan) to guide the safe management of the supply.

*those suppliers serving  25 or more people for 60 or more days per year; or  if there are fewer than 25 people, but 6000 or more ‘person/days’ (that is the number of people multiplied by the number of days they receive water from the supply).

Council has Water Safety Plans in place for all public water supplies although they are not specifically required for Mahanga and Tuai being only ‘neighbourhood and small water supplies’ respectively, supplying less than 500 people

Supplies that serve fewer people have no more than very minimal duties under the Act. They do however need to apply to be included on the Register of Community Drinking-water Supplies.

Water Supply Assessment 27 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

5.5.3 Water Information New Zealand

The Water Information New Zealand website is an information source for the public, and those managing New Zealand drinking-water quality. It provides information and data on all registered water supplies across New Zealand, including public, community and private supplies.

Wairoa Public Supplies

The following information is taken from the Water Information New Zealand Website for the reporting period 2012/13

COMPLIANCE WITH DRINKING WATER SUPPLY SUPPLY SIZE GRADING STANDARDS (2013 REPORT) Wairoa / Frasertown Minor Ungraded Yes

Tuai No – but has since been upgraded to Small Ungraded meet standards Mahanga Neighbourhood Ungraded Reporting not required

Private / Community Supplies

There are a number of private supplies for schools, maraes and other facilities that are registered as self-suppliers or network suppliers. Those are:

FACILITY MANAGEMENT SOURCE OF WATER TREATMENT

Schools Kotemaori Board of Trustees Bore Unknown Mohaka Board of Trustees Bore, roof and spring Unknown Nuhaka Board of Trustees Roof Unknown Ohuka Board of Trustees Mangaaruhe River, Unknown roof Putere Board of Trustees Putere Spring Unknown Ruakituri Board of Trustees Roof Unknown Te Mahia Board of Trustees Roof Unknown Tukemokihi Board of Trustees Mangapoike River, roof Unknown Marae Hurumua (Awamate) marae Roof Unknown Iwitea (Iwitea Valley) marae Roof Unknown Kaiuku (Mahia) marae Roof, bore Unknown Tuahuru (Mahia) marae Roof, bore Unknown Waipapa a iwi marae Roof, Mohaka River Unknown (Mohaka) Kahungunu (Nuhaka) marae Roof Unknown Manutai (Nuhaka) marae Roof Unknown Nga Tamakahu marae Roof Unknown (Nuhaka)

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FACILITY MANAGEMENT SOURCE OF WATER TREATMENT

Tane Nui a Rangi marae Roof Unknown (Nuhaka) Te Kotahitanga marae Roof Unknown (Nuhaka) Te Rehu (Nuhaka) marae Roof Unknown Ruawharo (Opoutama) marae Roof Unknown Te Rakato (Opoutama) marae Roof Unknown Te Huki (Raupunga) marae Roof Unknown Putere (Raupunga) marae Roof Unknown Te Maara a Ngata marae Roof Unknown (Raupunga) Erepeti (Ruakituri marae Roof Unknown Valley) Te Reinga (Te Reinga marae Roof Unknown – Ruakituri Valley) Waihua marae Roof Unknown Whakaki marae Roof Unknown Tourist & Recreation Facilities Lake Waikaremoana DoC Roof, stream Boiling recommended Huts by DoC Aniwaniwa DoC Office DoC Aniwaniwa River Three Stage Filtration, and Visitor Centre UV Waikaremoana Motor DoC Aniwaniwa River Three Stage Filtration, Camp UV and Chlorination Big Bush Holiday Park Owner Spring Unknown Mahia Beachfront Owner Bore Unknown Motel and Camp Mahia Golf Club Golf Club Roof Unknown Morere Hot Springs DoC Morere Spring Unknown Morere Tea Rooms Owner Mangakawa Stream, Unknown and Campground roof

For the most part there is little information readily available on the quality of water collection systems or the treatment undertaken (if any) of private supplies used for potable purposes in the District. Indirect measures of health and water quality issues include monitoring results of environmental quality and review of health statistics. Those supplies, which are included in the register of community drinking water supplies are all ungraded by the Ministry of health (rating of u), not required for supplies serving less than 500 people. The limited monitoring undertaken in the District suggests there has been little cause for concern with water sourced from roofs and bores, being typically within the key water quality guidelines for potable water, in particular bacterial results. However, it is recognised that any surface water takes (streams, rivers, springs and unconfined shallow bores) are at a greater risk of contamination in the District and therefore any water taken from these sources for potable uses should be treated. The minimum treatment recommended is the boiling of water.

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5.5.4 Wairoa District Public Health Status

The key aspect of public health associated with water and sanitary services is that of water- borne illnesses which include giardia, cryptosporidium, campylobacter, hepatitis, salmonella and verotoxic E.coli.

In 2002, data from the national notifiable disease surveillance ‘EpiSurv’ database showed the Wairoa District as having the lowest rate (0.0) of notified waterborne disease in the country. In comparison the national average of the notified drinking water-borne disease rate for 2002 was 68.9 cases per 100,000 (MoH 2004).

Current available information does not include data specific to water-borne illnesses. Whilst information is readily available on notifiable diseases in the District, those that are directly attributable to water supplies have not been identified. For example the figures for rates of infection for a number of organisms such as campylobacter will include those cases where they have been transmitted in food and by contact with animals etc.

Recent discussion with the Public Health Unit of the District Health Board has confirmed that Wairoa has not had any water borne disease outbreaks for a lengthy period of time.

However, a 1994 report on Wairoa District Health (Lane 1994 in WDC 2004b) identified that “…the socio-demographic profile of Wairoa reveals a bicultural community with a high proportion on low incomes and income support, unemployment, lack of educational qualifications, and single parenthood; all factors strongly associated with poor health status…”. The 2013 census has shown that the Wairoa District continues to have a similar social-demographic profile. This is of particular importance in areas which may not have access to adequate potable water supplies and/or where water and sanitary systems are not adequate to protect potable water supplies.

5.6 ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF STORMWATER AND SEWAGE DISCHARGES

As part of the LGA 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), under Section 126 (e) of the LGA 2002 Council is required to assess the adequacy of water and other sanitary services within the District in relation to actual or potential consequences of stormwater and sewage discharges.

For water supply, the potential for contamination of water sources through sewage discharge or discharge of contaminated stormwater can be significant. Supplies from groundwater and streams are more at risk. The Regional Council continues to provide enforcement and education in this area.

With regard to Wairoa’s public water supplies, the Wairoa / Frasertown and Tuai supplies are treated to meet required standards. Mahanga is not treated and is only provided as a supplementary supply with residents on a permanent ‘boil water’ notice.

The recent completion of the Opoutama and Mahia wastewater schemes will better protect local bore water sources from potential contamination.

As previously noted, those most at risk through contamination, in particular from sewage, are those on private supplies with no control through resource consent processes.

5.7 SUMMARY & IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

5.7.1 Adequacy of Services

In summary, Council is required to undertake a periodic assessment of its water services and to determine the adequacy of those services.

The table below outlines the adequacy of the water services provided by Wairoa District Council in relation to the purpose of the assessment as set out in section 126 of the LGA. Water Supply Assessment 30 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

(a) the health risks to It is unrealistic to expect all population centres in the Wairoa communities arising from District to be serviced by a public water supply network. Much of any absence of, or the population is rural or in small clusters / settlements. deficiency in, water or other sanitary services It is noted that some communities such as the Mahia Heights Subdivision as well as some schools, recreational / tourist facilities and marae have implemented their own network / community supply. Whilst it is recognised that there are always health risks associated with the absence of a publicly managed system, the cost-benefit has to be assessed. Many small communities, for example, would be unable to fund (through rates) the construction and ongoing maintenance and operation of a public service. In these cases, Council continues to provide education and enforcement of water supply requirements for any new development through building consents. In terms of the existing services provided by Council, they are considered adequate in relation to health risks; all have Water Safety Plans (or Public Health Risk Management Plans). Whilst currently ungraded, all comply with the Drinking Water Standards (Tuai supply recently upgraded) The health risk to Wairoa, being the largest population centre in the District, would have the potential to be high if water could not be treated by or distributed from the Wairoa Treatment Plant. Provision has been made to investigate an alternative / second source for Wairoa to address this. At Mahia Beach, where there is a stable population throughout the year with a significant increase over the summer period, investigations are to be undertaken to develop a public network. Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the water services. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of currently available to service agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are communities within the largely related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a reducing number of complaints, Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality of the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed services from a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognizes that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand (d) the extent to which drinking The Water Information New Zealand website, which provides data water provided by water and information on all registered supplies in the country states: supply services meets applicable regulatory  Wairoa supply (a minor supply) – ungraded but complying standards with the DWSNZ  Mahanga supply (a neighbourhood supply) – ungraded and reporting not required

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Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

 Tuai supply (a small supply) – ungraded – was non-complying with the DWSNZ at the time of the last report (2013) but has since been upgraded to meet the requirements of the DWSNZ Water Safety Plans are in place for all public networks and each supply has a contingency plan in place Community supplies / networks (private) are registered by the responsible party as required. Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of meeting applicable regulatory standards (e) the actual or potential Potential risks associated with ingress of stormwater into supplies consequences of stormwater addressed in Water Safety Plans and sewage discharges within the district Water services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of actual or potential of stormwater and sewage discharges

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5.7.2 Improvement Planning

Council has adopted a strategic management approach to improvement planning, continually developing, and implementing improvement processes and practices. Improvement Planning is integral to that approach. An Improvement Plan is in place for the Water Supply Activity through the 2015 Water Supply Asset Management Plan. This is focussed on improved asset management, such as setting appropriate renewal programmes based on sound asset data, to ensure a cost-effective service

The Water Safety Plans for each supply also include improvement schedules, primarily related to risk to public health as a result of poor water quality. The Water safety Plans also include Contingency Plans for use should a significant even occur such as insufficient water be available to treat, disruption in supply, chemical contamination and natural hazard events.

The Schedule below addresses improvements in relation to the adequacy of the services provided by Council and relate to the factors included in Section 126 of the LGA 2002.

Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(a)  Monitor statistics for water-borne diseases in the district that Environmental Health  Ongoing may indicate a treated / managed supply is needed. If there is Officer / Engineering Risks associated with  Monitoring no additional cost / deemed to be a deficiency in the water supply that results in a Manager Absence or Deficiencies in investigation costs to be public health risk then Council will investigate the provision of a Water Supply determined as required reticulated system or explore other suitable options  Where a lack of alternative sources of supply combined with Engineering Manager  2030/35 $100,000 provision density of development bring about or cause to bring about a for Mahia supply investigation risk to public health through lack of water potability then  Mahanga supply upgrade communal treatment and reticulation systems shall be provided provision 2016/19 $200,000 (if  Council will monitor growth in the District, with particular regard it proceeds) given to the Mahia Peninsula  Alternative Wairoa source 2035/40 $100,000 126(b)  Identify gaps between levels of service, customer expectation Internal resources / Ongoing and options to close those gaps Engineering Manager Quality of service Monitor LTP / AMP consultation process  Continue to monitor annual performance measures / targets with a half-year review process to be put in place to review progress towards the performance measures and targets

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Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication  Develop and Implement condition assessment programme with Utilities Engineer with Commence 2015/16 renewals programme to follow consultant support / Engineering Manager $200,000 to $300,000 per annum provided for in 2015 AMP and LTP over next 30 years 126(c)  In the short-term agreements with the meat works in the town Engineering Manager 2015/16 need to be formalised and documented Current and estimated Future demand  Continue to monitor communities in relation to potential growth Internal resources / Ongoing that may require or benefit from public supplies in the future Engineering Manager 126(d)  Options for the Mahanga supply to be investigated and pursued Consultant Provision for treatment upgrade 2016-19 - $200,000 Compliance with regulatory  Upgrade to meet DWSNZ Standards  Decommission  Implementation of Water Safety Plans and their improvement Water Treatment Plant Ongoing plans. Manager / Utilities Engineer / Engineering Manager 126(e)  Ensure education programmes, generally with Hawkes Bay Internal / Regional Ongoing Regional Council, continue Council Actual or potential consequences of  Ensure enforcement action taken as appropriate where rules / stormwater and sewage bylaws are breached discharges

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6 WASTEWATER ASSESSMENT

6.1 BRIEF OUTLINE OF ACTIVITY

The long term focus for wastewater is to continue to own, operate and maintain Council’s four wastewater treatment and discharge systems in Wairoa, Tuai, Mahia Beach and Opoutama in order to meet the needs of the communities and minimise issues with public health and safety and effects on the environment.

Council’s sewerage / wastewater activity includes the operation and maintenance of wastewater reticulation and treatment systems in:

Wairoa The sewerage system for Wairoa services a  32km pipework ranging in size mix of residential, commercial and light from 150mm dia to 450mm dia industrial properties, through a network of  357 manholes gravity pipes, pump stations and rising mains.  5 pump stations  Treatment plant with step filter, The pump stations lift the sewage into a aeration lagoon and oxidation gravity sewer trunk main feeding into the pond Fitzroy Street pump station. This ‘terminal’ pump station lifts the sewage to the  Discharge to Wairoa River treatment plant, which consists of a step estuary screen, aerated lagoon and oxidation pond. Following a retention period, treated effluent is discharged into the estuary at the mouth of the Wairoa River on out-going tides. Tuai The sewerage reticulation for the settlement  5km pipework ranging in size of Tuai serves a small village that was from 100mm dia to 150mm dia originally associated with the Waikaremoana  36 manholes Hydro Scheme.  Treatment plant comprising a The system was designed on the basis that septic tank and sand filters grey water and sewage (black water) are  Discharge to Whakamarino reticulated as separate systems. Therefore Stream much of the network consists of two pipes running parallel to each other Mahia The Mahia township wastewater scheme is  Private infrastructure comprising now substantially complete and comprises a septic tank, pump and pipework STEP system, - Septic Tank Effluent on private property Pumping – where the clear effluent from the  Approx. 9km of pipework, up to primary settlement tanks on each property is 125mm dia, generally in road reticulated via a pump station and rising reserve main to treatment ponds for further treatment and disposal by way of irrigation for a 14ha  Pump station (with back-up forestry plantation storage)  1.7km rising main to take wastewater over the hill  Three treatment ponds  Irrigation system over 14km2 of plantation Opoutama The Opoutama wastewater scheme is now  Approx 3.9km of UPVC and substantially complete. The public system is HDPE pipework up to 150mm dia. complete comprising reticulation and pump  50 manholes (1050mm and stations that feed a pump station at the 600mm dia) former Blue Bay subdivision for treatment prior to discharge via ground soakage.  4 pump stations Private connections to the system are now  Approx 30m bridge crossing underway.  Treatment Plant discharging to ground soakage (former Blue Bay package plant) Private Where a public wastewater system is provided, property owners are required to

Wastewater Assessment 35 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Systems connect to that system. Outside the public networks, in most cases sewage is disposed of by individuals via septic tanks. Some older systems use basic pit privies (long-drops) and other more advanced systems use newer technologies such as multi- chambered biolytic systems. Individual dwelling discharges are generally via infiltration trenches or soakage beds/pits from septic tanks, the efficiency of which is determined predominantly by the soil type

6.2 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ABSENCE OF OR DEFICIENCY IN WASTEWATER SERVICES.

6.2.1 Overview

Risk in relation to wastewater is addressed through a number of documents by Council:  This WSSA (health risk focus)  The Sewerage Asset Management Plan (asset management focus)  Risk Register (from corporate to operational risk)

Risk is also managed through resource consents generally required for any wastewater system.

6.2.2 Risk Management Process

The Asset Management Plan identifies the risk events, the likelihood of those risks occurring and the consequences of those risks should they occur.

Risk = Likelihood (1-5) x Consequence (1-5)

As well as producing documents specifically related to the management of risk (aim to eliminate, minimise or mitigate), Contingency Plans provide courses of action should a ‘significant event’ occur such as an unconsented discharge of wastewater. The development of Contingency Plans is part of the Improvement Plan for the 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan, scheduled for development in the 2015/16 financial year.

6.2.3 Health Risks related to Wastewater

Key health risks associated with wastewater:

 Contamination of Drinking Water  Contamination of rivers, streams and other water bodies

6.2.4 At-Risk Communities

The most at risk groups within the local community are those on private wastewater treatment systems.

Wastewater Assessment 36 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Sewage discharges from onsite systems are a potential problem – particularly in areas overlying unconfined aquifers or areas with poor drainage, which will either result in groundwater or surface water pollution. More information is required on system status and education of property owners on adequate maintenance and operation of systems. It is imperative that the design of new onsite systems are controlled to ensure they are adequate for the proposed loadings on the disposal system.

The risk of health issues is increased where properties are also on private water supplies with surface water takes including streams, rivers, springs and shallow bores (from unconfined aquifers)

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council defines an on-site sewage treatment system as “a system used for sewage collection, treatment and disposal within the boundaries of their property or origin.”

. Treatment systems include basic septic tank units; alternative septic tank units; dry vault units (e.g. pit privies); wet vault (e.g. septic closet) systems for blackwater with separate greywater disposal (e.g. sullage tanks); aerated wastewater treatment systems; sand media and alternative filters; wetlands; etc. . Disposal systems include soakage trenches and beds; modified trench and bed systems relying in full or in part on evapo-transpiration; subsurface and surface irrigation systems; absorption wells/infiltration pits; and above ground treatment/disposal (fill and mound) systems.

The following are common issues relating to the operation of private wastewater systems: . Incorrect operation of system such as using incorrect chemicals . Poor maintenance of system . Damage to system eg parking cars on drainage field, breakage of pipes . Short circuiting to water bodies eg infiltration to groundwater

6.2.5 Risk Management

Risk management at an activity level is dealt with in detail in the 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan.

As part of this assessment, the key risks associated with public and private wastewater systems in relation to health, the likelihood and consequence of that risk occurring and the recommended management of those risks are outlined in the table below:

RISK DESCRIPTION RECOMMENDED CURRENT STATUS COMMENT MANAGEMENT OF RISK

Contracting a  Minimise overflows  In accordance with the  Likelihood of this Notifiable  provide 2015 AMP, renewals risk occurring is low Disease via containment programme based on if assets maintained Surface Water condition assessments in accordance with Contamination  minimise infiltration to be developed and the AMP.  investigate cross implemented  The likelihood is connections potentially moderate  public education if public education not ongoing

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RISK DESCRIPTION RECOMMENDED CURRENT STATUS COMMENT MANAGEMENT OF RISK

Contamination of  Identify wastewater  All public systems  Potential increases Drinking Water overflows have consent in place where water source Supply from  facilitate  Mahia Beach WWTP close to effluent sewage effluent emergency has reduced potential discharge points response risk of contamination  Private systems  education also required to programmes. have consent although Council has limited control over private systems unless issues identified  Concerns in Mahanga led to works to reduce potential flotation of septic tanks Contamination of  Identify problem  Council consents in  Public education shellfish or other areas and seek to place, generally essential, especially food supplies mitigate adverse compliant with in a rural area from effects conditions  Enforcement of sewage/effluent  Public education with bylaws and overflows HBRC to continue legislation important

Degradation of  Identify discharge  Council consents in  Public education natural points, place, generally essential, especially watercourses  investigate compliant with in a rural area from treatment prior to conditions  Enforcement of sewage/effluent discharge,  Inflow / infiltration in bylaws and overflows  attenuate flows. Wairoa resulting in legislation important occasional wastewater  Investigate causes flows has been for failure and issue recognised and is warnings being addressed  Public education with HBRC to continue

Once the impact has been ranked according to the relative risk level it poses in terms of likelihood and consequence, it is possible to target the treatment of the risk exposure, beginning with the highest risks

6.3 QUALITY OF SERVICES

6.3.1 Levels of Service

Council, through the 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan, has set levels of service and performance measures related to the delivery of a ‘quality service’. Those identified as ‘Customer’ levels of service are:

CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT)

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CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT) Council will own, operate and All domestic householders and Some changes in levels of maintain a sewer system to non-domestic premises performance measures with new Wairoa, Tuai, Mahia and connected to the sewer system AMP but in summary: Opoutama that removes will be provided with a service  Systems provided, operated wastewater from properties and that that removes wastewater and maintained considered protects public health and the from their properties adequate for foreseeable environment’ Council will provide, operate and future ( provision has been maintain treatment facilities to made for new Wairoa enable appropriate disposal / discharge consent 2019) discharge of wastewater  Work undertaken by Community’s willingness to pay Contractors is completed as for the service will be considered required The provision facilities shall be  No issues with smell adequate for current and cleanliness of treatment foreseeable demand plant Customers will receive a Council shall meet all legislation Generally compliant other than prompt and efficient service requirements some instances of sewage overflow during and following heavy rainfall events (inflow and infiltration) in Wairoa

Council shall respond to Changes in levels of sewerage overflows resulting performance measures with new from a blockage or other fault in AMP (new mandatory the sewerage system performance measures) Number of queries / complaints The total number of complaints received in 2013/14 was 45 (34 received shall reduce each yea in 2012/13 and 28 in 2011/12)

 System and its adequacy measured trough dry weather sewerage overflows  Discharge Compliance, compliance with resource consents measured through abatement notices and other action taken against Council  Fault Response times dependent on urgency of the fault  Customer Satisfaction based on the number of complaints received

Each of these performance measures has been incorporated into Council’s levels of service for the sewerage activity under the 2015 Asset Management Plan and the Long Term Plan

Specific targets are then set for the next three years (the life of the Long Term Plan) in relation to each performance measure.

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6.3.2 Delivery of Service Levels

Council implements service levels for the sewerage activity operations through its operations and maintenance contract for Wairoa and Tuai, supervised and administered by Council’s Engineering Department. This is predominantly performance-based and focuses on inspection and preventative maintenance as well as having a reactive component to address faults and complaints.

The Mahia and Opoutama wastewater systems are still under the defects liability period and no formal maintenance and operations contract has been let at this stage

It is noted that under Section 17A of the LGA Act 2002 Amendment Bill (No.3), there are new requirements for the assessment of the cost-effectiveness of current infrastructure service delivery arrangements. With the new mandatory performance measures being introduced into the levels of service, this should be undertaken prior to re-tendering of the contract.

6.3.3 Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction can be used as an indication of the quality of the service.

Council provides a service request system whereby customers can phone in, email, write a letter or lodge a request in person. From a record of queries and complaints relating to wastewater services through the CSR system) since 2008/09, the following table shows the number of CSRs received each year:

Year 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

No. CSRs 41 55 57 28 34

It is noted that the increase in CSRs received in the last year will be related to the completion of the Mahia and Opoutama systems. The types of issues related to the Sewerage activity have been defined as;  Blockages to the main system (Council responsibility),  Blockages in lateral (Customer responsibility),  Locating laterals,  Overflowing of sewerage through manholes, gulley traps and toilets (generally accounting for about 50% of CSRs received in relation to sewerage), and

Council has targets for service which are monitored and reported on yearly in the Annual Report. This includes a target for reducing the number of CSRs each year which has been achieved over the last three (3) years.

Council also undertakes an Annual Survey to assist in the assessment of customer satisfaction and more importantly to monitor trends over time.

Overall, the results for 2012/13 showed that, of those surveyed that receive the sewerage service, 56% are satisfied with the service whilst 14% are not very satisfied which is in line with results over the previous recent years.

6.3.4 Quality of Private Wastewater Disposal Systems

For the most part there is little information readily available on the quality of private systems. Indirect measures include monitoring results of environmental quality and review of health

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statistics, particularly in relation to quality of drinking water and surface water which can be affected by wastewater effluent discharge.

Council reacts to any issues identified with private systems as appropriate when they arise.

6.4 CURRENT AND FUTURE DEMAND

6.4.1 Overview

The long-term focus for sewerage reticulation and treatment is to continue to maintain Council’s networks in the Wairoa District to meet growth needs within the service areas, to effectively manage risks associated with the system and minimise health and safety issues

Being a largely rural population, it is not practical to suggest that the whole District can have a reticulated wastewater treatment network.

6.4.2 Wairoa Township

The treatment plant at Wairoa is operating well within its optimum and is in general compliance with resource consent conditions. The plant design has capacity to serve a population of 10,000, approximately double the current population served. The discharge is consented until the 31st May 2019 and the Plant is permitted to discharge up to 5400m3/day, on out-going tides, when the river mouth is unobstructed.

Whilst much of the reticulation is more than 50 years old and parts are showing signs of deterioration, the design capacity is adequate to serve the foreseeable future demand. At times, the system overflows but this is due to the inflow and infiltration of stormwater, not the design capacity of the system. This issue is being addressed through appropriate investigations and remedial works.

Capacity of the reticulation is deemed adequate for the foreseeable future. However there is limited available data and more information is required regarding the condition of assets, especially in relation to inflow and infiltration of stormwater into the system. Further information gathering and remedial / renewals planning is included in the Asset Management Plan’s Improvement Plan

It is expected that legislative requirements will drive improved environmental outcomes which may impact significantly on the future method of discharging wastewater.

In summary, whilst the overall system is considered to have adequate capacity to serve demand for the foreseeable future, the method of wastewater treatment will need to be assessed prior to obtaining / renewing the discharge consent which expires in 2019.

6.4.3 Tuai Village

The Tuai system has capacity for a population of 400 (current population approximately 270 so is theoretically operating at approx 65% capacity). It is consented to discharge up to 300m3/day.

The outflow from the sewage treatment plant (both grey and black water) averages 77 m³/day (<1 L/s, with a standard deviation of 39 m³/day) and a maximum of 300 m³/day was recorded during 1999-2000 following a storm event. The wastewater flows are influenced significantly

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by infiltration, however the average sewage flow rate figures are considered reasonable for the given population.

Capacity of the reticulation is deemed adequate for the foreseeable future. However there is limited available data and more information is required regarding the condition of assets

6.4.4 Mahia Beach

Resident population growth overall is declining in the District. However, Mahia Peninsula supports a large holiday season population.

At the time of the 2005 WSSA, there were ongoing problems with septic tanks, largely due to a combination of due to the high water tables and low soil drainage, as well as poor compliance results from some systems (including newer multi-chamber systems).

To address these issues, a public wastewater treatment plant was developed and implemented and, other than some connections, is now complete.

This system is deemed adequate for the foreseeable future, having been designed to accommodate in the order of 619 dwellings. There are approximately 425 properties now connected to the system. As such, it is considered that the system has adequate capacity to meet the current and foreseeable future demand.

6.4.5 Opoutama

Resident population growth overall is declining in the District. However, Mahia Peninsula supports a large holiday season population.

Opoutama had ongoing problems in relation to aging septic tanks.

To address these issues, a public wastewater treatment system was developed and implemented and, other than some connections, is now complete. The system is designed to accommodate 50 dwellings. It is likely that, in the future, additional capacity will be required but, in order to effectively manage costs to the local community, Council made the decision to defer an extension of the treatment system until needed. The design of the system (using an existing package plant on the previous Blue Bay subdivision site) will allow this in a cost- effective manner.

6.4.6 Other Communities

At this stage, there are no indications that Council will implement any additional public wastewater networks.

There has been a reasonable level of development in Mahanga and this may continue into the future, as subdivisions infill residential zoned land. However, at this stage, it is not anticipated that any future public systems will be developed

Future pressures, particularly in tourist areas, may exacerbate current problems associated with aging onsite systems

Each development will be required to provide adequate wastewater treatment and discharge. This may include individual treatment systems or it may include a communal system. Hawkes Bay Regional Council have key jurisdiction in relation to wastewater and would provide significant input into the requirements of individual developments.

6.4.7 Assessment of Future Needs

Below are the principles that are generally applied to meet current and future demand:

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 Where ongoing issues associated with ageing septic tanks and on-site wastewater disposal systems are identified as having adverse effects on the environment and / or results in a public health risk, options for public system will be investigated  Problems resulting in inadequate service will be addressed so that affected customers have a service that is reliable and able to meet the requirements of the community.  New properties will be required to connect to a public network if available,  Council will monitor growth in the District,  Council will continue to provide assistance to community groups, marae, and schools with regard to the safe treatment and disposal of wastewater

Key capital works that have been programmed over the next 30 years to address demand effectively comprise a new or upgraded wastewater treatment plant to service the Wairoa network. The current discharge consent expires in 2019. $4.75 million has been provided for in the 2015 AMP / LTP for the development of the scheme.

These capital works are also supported by a renewals programme to ensure assets are adequately maintained to meet current and future demand.

6.5 COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATORY STANDARDS

6.5.1 Overview

The key regulatory system for wastewater is the Resource Management Act 1991.

In order to implement requirements of the RMA, Hawkes Bay Regional Council then has its Regional Resource Plan and Coastal Environment Plan which contain policies and rules that must be complied with to allow an activity to proceed without consent. The majority of public and private wastewater discharge systems require consent from the Regional Council.

With appropriate resource consents in place to protect the environment and by complying with those consents, Council’s water supply systems are more likely to meet the relevant regulatory standards.

Specific problems, which may affect the adequacy of the systems, in relation to regulatory standards, include:

POTENTIAL PROBLEM ACTION

Inflow / Infiltration of Can significantly increase Inflow and infiltration reduced through: stormwater into the flows potentially leading to . Improved asset management reticulation discharge of unconsented / (through 2015 AMP) untreated wastewater . Enforcement in relation to illegal Through joints or cracks in stormwater connections deteriorated pipes or . Education through illegal stormwater connections

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POTENTIAL PROBLEM ACTION

Lack of treatment or . No treatment used,  Regular monitoring and compliance failure of treatment . Poorly maintained with consent conditions systems treatment systems,  Ongoing maintenance . Excess inflow  Public education Leading to discharge of untreated or inadequately  Building consent process for new treatment effluent and upgraded properties will require appropriate wastewater disposal

6.5.2 Resource Consents

The quality of the discharges for the Wairoa, Tuai, Mahia and Opoutama Plants is governed by resource consents administered by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. The following tables sets out current resource consents held by Council for their sewerage reticulation system

Table 6.5: Current Resource Consents for Discharge of Treated Wastewater

CONSENT EXPIRY Wairoa Discharge of treated effluent from the Wairoa 2019 CD940404W Wastewater Treatment Plant

Tuai Discharge of treated effluent from the Tuai 2024 DP940405W Wastewater Treatment Plant

Mahia Beach Discharge of treated effluent 2035

Opoutama Discharge of treated effluent 2040

6.5.3 Wairoa Effluent Disposal Consent Compliance

A review of the recent Wairoa Treatment Plant monitoring results shows that the plant has generally been performing within the conditions of the resource consent. This is to be expected given that the plant is capable of servicing a greater population than already being serviced.

Effluent Discharge Standards

Condition 11 of the resource consent outlines Effluent Discharge Standards that are to be met. Where standards are not met, there are steps to be taken for re-testing, cause identification, mitigation and remediation.

In the last five years there have been 14 months where a non-compliance has been identified. The table below shows the results for 2014, fully complaint other than in January.

WAIROA DISTRICT COUNCIL, RESOURCE CONSENT MONITORING (CONSENT CD040404W) Analysis (g/m3) Suspended Date COD solids Ammonia Compliance Consent Limit not Consent Limit not Consent limit not greater than 220 g/m3 greater than 87 g/m3 greater than 36 g/m3 (Yes/No) 8/01/2014 290 135 19.6 No

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13/03/2014 102 21 26 Yes

16/04/2014 145 74 9.9 Yes

14/05/2014 120 53 17.8 Yes

25/06/2014 57 11 14.5 Yes

17/07/2014 122 45 18.3 Yes

11/08/2014 97 43 7 Yes

12/09/2014 102 42 10.4 Yes

8/10/2014 210 72 14.6 Yes

14/11/2014 126 46 17.2 Yes

23/12/2014 149 58 15.3 Yes

Past actions to address non-compliance have included de-sludging of the treatment ponds.

Unconsented Discharge – Inflow and Infiltration

There have also been some instances of unconsented discharge of wastewater to the Wairoa River during and following heavy rainfall events, generally related to issues of infiltration and inflow of stormwater into the wastewater reticulation (as previously noted in this report). This has led to non-compliance with conditions 2, 3, 4 and 6 which relate to volumes and times of permitted discharge. Studies, investigations and remedial works are now underway with specific provision included in the 2015 Long Term Plan and the 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan, through the Improvement Plan and allocated funding.

The following key areas have been identified:

ISSUE PROPOSED ACTION An estimated 50% of additional flows come via Previously, this has been addressed as the private property such as illegal stormwater and problem is recognised. Provision is now being downpipe connections, low lying gully traps / made in the 2015 Asset Management Plan and manholes and defects in laterals Long Term Plan to be more proactive in this area with budgets to undertake inspections and Deteriorated pipes in the network allowing the condition assessments and then implement an infiltration of with infiltration of stormwater into appropriate remedial works and renewals the pipes and through joints programme. The majority of private property issues would be at the cost of the property owner.

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ISSUE PROPOSED ACTION Through modelling, it has been determined that Such remedial works will be identified through the capacity of the wastewater system is the modelling and condition assessment generally adequate, for normal flows and future programmes being developed under the population predictions. However, there are a few Improvement Plan for the 2015 Asset areas that are considerably under capacity for Management Plan. wet weather flows which can lead to backflows up the pipes and discharge through manholes Addressing the issues above would greatly and pump stations. reduce such occurrences Wastewater Treatment Plant – at times, Addressing the issues above will eliminate the excessive inflow of effluent into the ponds means excess flows into the treatment ponds and a reduced level of treatment prior to discharge significantly reduce the likelihood of this problem occurring.

6.5.4 Tuai Effluent Disposal Consent Compliance

In the past, the plant at Tuai has had issues of non-compliance with the conditions in the resource consent above. A number of reasons are attributable to these occurrences including:  Infiltration of stormwater during wet weather causing solids to be flushed through rather than settling out  Sludge build up reducing retention time and overflow of solids onto the filters  Prevention of filters to operate optimally due to blockages caused by the above.

Following discussions with Regional Council staff, the treatment plant was upgraded in 2012 to address these issues and to reduce non-compliance with consent conditions.

Effluent Discharge Standards

Conditions of the resource consent outline Effluent Discharge Standards that are to be met. Where standards are not met, there are steps to be taken for re-testing, cause identification, mitigation and remediation.

Between 2010 and 2012, there were 22 months where standards were not fully compliant. Since then and the upgrade of the plant the level of non-compliance has been more or less eliminated with no instances reported between 2013 and 2014.

The table below shows the results for 2014, fully compliant with required standards.

TUAI STP DISCHARGE TO KAHURANGAROA STREAM (CONSENT DP940405W) Suspended COD pH Ammonia e coli Compliance solids Consent Limit Date Consent Consent not greater Consent Limit Consent Limit not Limit not than 1000 not greater Limit 6.5 - greater than greater than cfu/100mls - 2 (Yes/No) than 20 g/m3 8.5 42 g/m3 15 g/m3 consecutive samples 8/01/2014 8 10 6.6 0.3 <1 Yes

25/02/2014 19 14 7.5 3 <1 Yes

13/03/2014 8 5 7.6 1 <1 Yes

16/04/2014 <6 <3 7.6 0.11 <1 Yes

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25/06/2014 <6 <3 7.9 0.049 <1 Yes

26/07/2014 <6 <3 7.8 0.107 <1 Yes

27/08/2014 <6 <3 7.9 0.084 <1 Yes

17/09/2014 20 4 7.9 3.2 1 Yes

8/10/2014 <6 <3 7.9 0.064 <1 Yes

14/11/2014 20 5.6 7.6 4.5 <1 Yes

23/12/2014 <6 <3 7.8 0.116 <1 Yes

6.5.5 Mahia Effluent Disposal Consent Compliance

The Mahia scheme has been completed in the last two years with most properties in the catchment now connected.

Monitoring of the system is undertaken under the consent and no known non-compliances have been recorded to date.

6.5.6 Opoutama Effluent Disposal Consent Compliance

The Opoutama scheme has been completed in the last two years with most properties in the catchment now connected.

Monitoring of the system is undertaken under the consent and no known non-compliances have been recorded to date.

6.5.7 Private Systems

Resource consent is generally also required for private on-site systems and each consent will include conditions that must be complied with

6.5.8 Wairoa District Public Health Status

The key aspect of public health associated with water and sanitary services is that of water- borne illness. Wastewater discharge can have a significant impact on the quality of water and hence the risk of water-borne illnesses.

Water borne diseases of concern in New Zealand include giardia, cryptosporidium, campylobacter, hepatitis, salmonella and verotoxic E.coli for example:

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Current available information does not include data specific to water-borne illnesses but recent discussion with the Public Health Unit of the District Health Board has confirmed that Wairoa has not had any water borne disease outbreaks for a lengthy period of time.

From this, we can conclude that Councils’ wastewater provisions across the District are adequate.

6.6 ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF STORMWATER AND SEWAGE DISCHARGES

Stormwater discharges, if they enter the wastewater system, can increase flows which can lead to overflows of untreated wastewater effluent into rivers, other water bodies, or through manholes. Consequences can include:

 Contaminated surface water  Contaminated groundwater  Potential drinking water contamination  Legal, environmental and health implications

Through a number of means such as building and resource consents, bylaws and policy, Council can control and enforce legislative requirements.

Specifically related to stormwater entering wastewater systems, Council has recognised and identified problems and are in the process of undertaking investigations and remedial work to address these which will eliminate or greatly reduce the potential for untreated wastewater discharges into the Wairoa River.

Such issues are not only related to wastewater systems, it can also include the discharge of animal waste into rivers from adjacent farmland for example. Such events are largely controlled through the Regional and Coastal Plans and fall under the jurisdiction of the Hawkes Bay Regional Council.

6.7 SUMMARY & IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

6.7.1 Adequacy of Services

In summary, Council is required to undertake a periodic assessment of its water and sanitary services, including wastewater, and to determine the adequacy of those services.

The table below outlines the adequacy of the wastewater services provided by Wairoa District Council in relation to the purpose of the assessment as set out in section 126 of the Local Government Act.

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa

(a) the health risks to It is unrealistic to expect all population centres in the Wairoa communities arising from District to be serviced by a public wastewater network. Much of any absence of, or the population is rural or in small clusters / settlements. deficiency in, water or other sanitary services Whilst it is recognised that there are always health risks associated with the absence of a publicly managed system, the cost-benefit has to be assessed. Many small communities, for example, would be unable to fund (through rates) the construction and ongoing maintenance and operation of a public service. In these cases, Council continues to provide education and

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Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in Wairoa

enforcement of wastewater treatment and discharge requirements for any new development through building consents. In terms of the existing services provided by Council, they are considered adequate in relation to health risks; all have resource consent in place for which Council is generally compliant. A key health risk to Wairoa, being the largest population centre in the District, is the discharge of untreated wastewater into the river. Such risks are being reduced through the current inflow and infiltration investigations and remedial works. Wastewater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the services. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of currently available to service agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are communities within the related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a generally reducing number of complaints over the years, Wastewater services provided in Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality if the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed services from a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognizes that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Wastewater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand (d) the extent to which drinking Council has consents in place for all public wastewater systems. water provided by water Whilst resource consent are generally being met, where they are supply services meets not, action plans are being implemented to address this. applicable regulatory standards By generally meeting regulatory standards and resource consent conditions for wastewater and with a good record in relation to water-borne disease across the district: Wastewater services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of prevention of contamination of water supplies (e) the actual or potential Council is fully aware of potential problems and consequences consequences of stormwater from stormwater and sewage discharges. Through a number of and sewage discharges means such as building and resource consents, bylaws and within the district policy, Council can control and enforce legislative requirements. Council has recognised and identified problems of inflow and infiltration of stormwater into the wastewater system which can lead to discharge of untreated sewage. Measures are being put in place to address this. With regard to discharge of effluent into rivers and other similar issues, Council works with Regional Council in providing public education and monitoring It is considered that Council provides adequate service in terms of recognising and addressing potential issues associated with stormwater and sewage discharge.

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6.7.2 Improvement Planning

Council has adopted a strategic management approach to improvement planning, continually developing, and implementing improvement processes and practices. Improvement Planning is integral to that approach. An Improvement Plan is in place for the Sewerage Activity through the 2015 Sewerage Asset Management Plan. This is focussed on improved asset management, such as setting appropriate renewal programmes based on sound asset data, to ensure a cost-effective service

The Schedule below addresses improvements in relation to the adequacy of the services provided by Council and relate to the factors included in Section 126 of the LGA 2002.

Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(a)  Monitor statistics for water-borne diseases in the district that may Environmental Health  Ongoing indicate contaminated water supplies as a result of sewage effluent Officer / Engineering  Monitoring no Risks associated with Manager Absence or Deficiencies in additional cost / Wastewater System investigation costs to be determined as required  Monitoring of private on-site systems and education on maintenance Environmental Health Ongoing and operation of systems. It is imperative that the design of new onsite Officer and Utilities systems are controlled to ensure they are adequate for the proposed Engineer with HBRC to loadings on the disposal system work with property owners 126(b)  Identify gaps between levels of service, customer expectation and Internal resources /  Ongoing options to close those gaps Engineering Manager Quality of service  Monitor LTP / AMP  Continue to monitor annual performance measures / targets with a consultation process half-year review process to be put in place to review progress towards the performance measures and targets  Develop and Implement condition assessment programme with Utilities Engineer with  Commence 2015/16 renewals programme to follow consultant support /  $150,000 to $200,000 Engineering Manager per annum provided for in 2015 AMP and LTP over next 30 years 126(c)  Monitor communities where on-site systems are used for issues Environmental Health  Ongoing associated with sewage overflows and contamination Officer / Engineering Current and estimated Monitoring no additional

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Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication Future demand  Continue to monitor communities in relation to potential growth that Manager cost / investigation costs may require or benefit from public supplies in the future to be determined as required 126(d)  Continue to monitor effluent to ensure compliance with required Utilities Engineer / Ongoing, no additional standards and address any recurring reasons for non-compliance Engineering Manager cost Compliance with regulatory Standards  Address inflow and infiltration through developing appropriate renewals Utilities Engineer with  Ongoing programme. External support as  Provision of $150,000 necessary eg for to $200,000 per annum  Identify private property issues and liaise with property owners modelling, CCTV / regarding remedial options for next 30 years for Engineering Manager renewals programming and implementation 126(e)  Ensure education programmes, generally with Hawkes Bay Regional Internal / Regional Ongoing Council, continue Council Actual or potential consequences of  Ensure enforcement action taken as appropriate where rules / bylaws stormwater and sewage are breached discharges

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7 STORMWATER ASSESSMENT

7.1 BRIEF OUTLINE OF ACTIVITY

7.1.1 General

The long term focus for Stormwater is to continue to own, operate and maintain Council’s existing systems to meet the needs of the community in relation to health, environmental wellbeing and safety.

The management of stormwater is necessary to ensure personal safety is not at risk, habitable floors of buildings are protected from inundation and that the environment is protected from erosion and its effects. For these reasons the public and private stormwater collection and conveyance systems have been constructed

Council provides stormwater services for the urban area of Wairoa with large sections of the urban area low-lying in relation to mean sea level. Wairoa’s ‘primary’ stormwater system consists of pipelines and open drains and when this system reaches its capacity the excess flow is conveyed by the ‘secondary’ system, consisting of roads, public reserves and private properties that act as overland flow routes in intense rainstorms.

There is also a third ‘global’ system that operates when the Wairoa River overflows its’ banks and floods the lower areas of the township. It is termed a global system because Wairoa’s low areas have no formal flood protection system and the river completely dominates the primary and secondary systems in those events.

7.1.2 Activity Description

The public system provides for the collection and conveyance of stormwater from roads and from developed areas. Typically runoff from roads, driveways and properties is collected via kerb and channel, catch pits, open drains and conveyed through a limited piped network to discharge to open drains, streams or coastal margins.

Council owns and operates the public stormwater system serving the Wairoa area. The operation and maintenance of this system is currently administered through the sewerage and stormwater contract. The Roading Maintenance Contractor undertakes sump cleaning and drain cleaning. These contracts are supervised and administered by Council.

Council is responsible for:

 Maintaining the road drainage system (not including SH 2), kerb and channel and culverts,  Providing for and maintaining the public stormwater drainage system that receives stormwater from individual properties, reticulation (pipes), catch pits, manholes, inlets/outlets.  Maintaining public watercourses, open drains, and overland flow paths.

Any development, residential, commercial or industrial, is required to address discharge of stormwater. Subdivisions since the late 1960’s are required to install a system of piped stormwater drainage.

7.1.3 Wairoa Township – Stormwater System

Council provides stormwater services for the urban areas of the Wairoa Township. This service is managed under the Wairoa Stormwater Asset Management Plan and generally in accordance with the Council’s Engineering Code of Practice.

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Stormwater assets include:

 39,251m of stormwater reticulation with more than 75% of the network deemed to be over half its expected life and in the order of 75% being concrete  217 manholes.  950 sumps  Approx. 24km of stormwater channel  Open drains

The stormwater systems generally discharge to the Wairoa River

Council has insufficient information to fully determine the material or condition of the older pipes although it is likely to be concrete or earthenware. To date, asset condition has primarily been based on age of pipes / assets and visual inspections. A programme is to be put in place to more accurately assess condition of stormwater assets.

Council has implemented an annual programme of piping open drains in the urban area since the 1980’s and it is planned to continue this.

7.1.4 Non-Reticulated Stormwater

Council provides open drains in the townships of Mahia and Frasertown. The maintenance of these drains is undertaken as part of the Roading Maintenance Contract.

7.1.5 Private Systems

Private Property

Private facilities collect stormwater on-site and feed it to the public stormwater system (where it exists) or directly to streams or ground soakage. This runoff is reduced where the roof water is collected for drinking water and other usage. Private facilities typically consist of:  Household roof collection systems (spouting, guttering),  Channels and pipe work connecting to the public stormwater system (vehicle crossings).

Private property owners are responsible for:  Providing and maintaining an adequate stormwater drainage system for their properties, which includes stormwater drains/pipes, soakage systems, and if applicable stormwater disposal/reuse systems,  Maintaining any open/piped private watercourses and secondary flow paths that run through their properties,  Accepting and making provision for any natural runoff over private properties from properties located above identified boundaries.

New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA)

NZTA is responsible for the assets within the road carriageway on state highways in Wairoa, including State Highway 2 and State Highway 38.

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7.2 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ABSENCE OF OR DEFICIENCY IN STORMWATER SERVICES.

7.2.1 Overview

Risk in relation to stormwater is addressed through a number of documents by Council:  The Stormwater Asset Management Plan (asset management focus)  Risk Register (from corporate to operational risk)  Resource Consents

Historically stormwater systems were designed to cope with the less severe, more frequent rain events on the basis that a reasonable standard of drainage will be achieved the majority of the time. It is both impractical and uneconomical to provide stormwater systems that cope with every contingency.

A small number of stormwater pipes have no proper discharge point or may even connect illegally to the wastewater system – this latter situation is a primary source of unwanted inflow to the wastewater system, which contributes to overflows from manholes and private gulley traps in wet weather.

Properties in the rural areas are predominantly unserviced.

7.2.2 Risk Management Process

The risk management process identifies the risk events, the likelihood of those risks occurring and the consequences of those risks should they occur.

Risk = Likelihood (1-5) x Consequence (1-5)

As well as producing documents specifically related to the management of risk (aim to eliminate, minimise or mitigate), Contingency Plans provide courses of action should a ‘significant event’ occur such as a flood event. The development of Contingency Plans is part of the Improvement Plan for the 2015 Stormwater Asset Management Plan, scheduled for development in the 2015/16 financial year.

7.2.3 Health Risks related to Stormwater

Key health risks associated with stormwater include:

WATER Water quality of the District’s waterways and coastal waters are threatened by: QUALITY  Farming and forestry practices in upper catchments (water quality, flooding and impacts on land including erosion);  Failing older septic tanks which negatively impact on coastal or river water quality;  Cumulative impacts from discharges of wastewater. A decrease in oxygen concentrations and an increase in suspended solids, bacterial concentrations, ammonia nitrogen and biochemical oxygen demand can result in health risks to those participating in contact water sports in rivers, specifically the lower Wairoa River and estuary.

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Stormwater management in the Wairoa District currently focuses on quantity control (flood management etc) rather than water quality and there has been no formal public treatment of stormwater discharges in the past. Monitoring of stormwater discharges in the area is generally limited to compliance monitoring undertaken by the HBRC GROUNDWATER Regional Council has eight groundwater-monitoring (quality) wells located within QUALITY the District, five in the Mahia area and three in the Wairoa area. Wells are located within rural and coastal areas to reflect the predominant land uses within the area. The 2011 State of the Environment (SOE) report produced by Regional Council showed all sites within the Wairoa District to be within acceptable nitrate levels, a measure of the groundwater quality. Elevated nitrate levels can affect water supply as well as lead to nutrient enrichment in surface water and downstream water bodies and rivers. The 2011 SOE report does show bacterial compliance for groundwater to be less than 100% in some of the Mahia and Wairoa sites, mostly in areas of shallow unconfined aquifers allowing material to travel through the ground more freely. Since the 2011 report, the wastewater treatment scheme has been constructed and hence the 2015 results should show significant improvement in this regard. Non-compliance for groundwater in the Wairoa area would be more related to stock effluent entering the groundwater system. RECREATIONAL HBRC monitors the state of the waters in and around the district. 32 beaches WATER across Hawkes Bay are monitored through the summer months QUALITY The following statement was made in the 2011 State of the Environment (SOE) report (next report due to be publicly available April 2015) ‘The quality of marine water in Hawkes Bay is generally of very high quality and any problems are usually short-lived and associated with heavy rainfalls’ HBRC recreational water quality survey sites include six Wairoa sites: . Lower Wairoa (at ski club) . Mahia Beach . Opoutama Beach . Maungawhio Lagoon . Mahanga Beach . Te Mahia Potential sources of contamination across the district include: . Urban runoff . Ageing private on-site wastewater systems / septic tanks . River flows from farmland The most recent State of the Environment (SOE) report produced by Regional Council is dated 2011 and states that the Wairoa River only has 80% compliance with required standards although it does state that this is mainly attributable to heavy rainfall events prior to sampling. As previously noted, issues of inflow and infiltration of stormwater into wastewater systems during and after heavy rainfall events and consequent overflows are being addressed through remedial and renewals programmes. FLOODING Flooding is considered a major hazard in parts of the District. Many lowland areas EVENTS are at risk from flooding, in particular Wairoa Township and Nuhaka. The Wairoa Operative District Plan states: “The Wairoa Township and surrounding areas, including Frasertown, are at risk from flooding from the Wairoa River for events as frequent as 3.3% probability of occurring annually.” Flooding from the Awatere Stream and when the Wairoa River mouth is partially or fully closed is also a risk. Nuhaka is also vulnerable to high rainfall and flooding events, the settlement being at a low level immediately adjacent to the Nuhaka River. The District Plan includes a map of flood prone areas on the Wairoa township and restrictions are imposed around building in these areas. The Building Act also provides methods of minimising risk. There are few other measures in place to provide protection from flooding. Effective flood protection is very expensive. However, public awareness of the risk of flooding is relatively high. Education is a key method of increasing that

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awareness. FLOODING DUE Overland flow paths are important in their function of carrying excess stormwater TO BLOCKED when primary and secondary systems (reticulation / drains) overflow OVERLAND If the overland flow paths get blocked, they will not function in this way and can FLOW PATHS lead to upstream flooding. Monitoring and inspection of these overland flow paths is important as is public education.

7.2.4 Risk Management

Risk management at an activity level is dealt with in detail in the 2015 Stormwater Asset Management Plan.

As part of this assessment, the key risks associated with stormwater systems in relation to health, the likelihood and consequence of that risk occurring and the recommended management of those risks are outlined in the table below:

RECOMMENDED MANAGEMENT OF RISK DESCRIPTION CURRENT STATUS RISK Contamination of  Groundwater monitoring  Regional Council undertakes Drinking Water Source  Minimise or avoid any hazardous regular monitoring of eight resulting in health risks substance inputs in the vicinity of groundwater wells in the any public drinking water District supplies.  Trade Water Bylaw in place  Have an emergency response set  Inflow and infiltration of up to avoid, mitigate or remediate stormwater into wastewater system being addressed

Spillage of petroleum  Bylaws in place with enforcement  Contingency Plan to be or other hazardous action as appropriate. developed as part of 2015 substances products to  Education programme for Stormwater AMP the stormwater system businesses and general public Improvement Plans and consequent with regard to disposal of  Bylaw in place with the discharge of household substances. HSNO Act is the main contaminated mechanism for Council to stormwater into rivers regulate hazardous substances Degradation of natural  Identify discharge points,  Application for resource watercourses from investigate treatment prior to consent for Stormwater stormwater discharges discharge, attenuate flows, discharge for Wairoa creation of buffer or riparian ongoing zones for diffuse discharges, developmental controls to minimise effects of sedimentation, developmental contributions Property Damage  Hazard Identification  Provision of habitable floor caused by Flooding  Identification and protection of levels in the District Plan, overland flow paths Identification  Development of flood hazard  Building Act requirements maps showing floodplains in a 1% also implemented through AEP storm. Building consents  Building control in flood-prone  Council has good areas understanding of the hazards that occur within the  implementation and prioritisation district in relation to flooding of required capital works to avoid, of roads and waterways that mitigate and remediate, are prone to overflowing. developmental controls to minimise the effects of flooding Injury or Death as a  Public education on flood risk  Public has high level of awareness awareness

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RECOMMENDED MANAGEMENT OF RISK DESCRIPTION CURRENT STATUS RISK result of flooding  Ongoing public education on civil defense Access Restrictions  Identification and maintenance of  Lifelines project developed due to flood and /or alternative routes with Regional Council flood damage  Identification and maintenance of overland flow paths  Public education on those identified routes Damage to Public  Identification, implementation and  Flood damage repair Infrastructure by prioritisation of required capital contracts tendered as Flooding and works to avoid, mitigate and required associated Erosion and remediate.  All contracts have provision Sedimentation  Hazard mapping to identify flood for erosion and sediment plains control as part of any  Identification and maintenance of earthworks overland flow paths  Developmental controls to minimise the effects of sedimentation, stormwater attenuation Wastewater  Catchment Management Planning  Cost-effective renewals Infrastructure located  Alternative options for wastewater programme to be developed across stormwater line as part of ongoing renewals as part of 2015 AMPs lines. programme for wastewater The wastewater line is a continuous length and therefore  Renewals programme for stormwater reticulation to replace any risk of contamination is low stormwater pipes susceptible to infiltration

The catchments have a mixture of land uses and activities operating within their boundaries. Each land use and activity has the potential to deliver point and non-point sources of contaminants to drains, streams and the coastal environment with the potential for environmental and / or human health effects.

Once the risk to the environment and human health has been determined, the impact can be ranked according to the relative risk level it poses in terms of likelihood and consequence. It is then possible to target the treatment of the risk exposure, beginning with the highest risks and a range of options can be investigated and implemented to best avoid, mitigate or remedy potential adverse effects identified (if any).

7.2.5 Potential Contaminants

Due to the range of land uses and zoning in and around the Wairoa District, there is potential for a wide range of point and non-point source pollutants to enter waterways.

Urban Catchments

Though the urban catchment is predominantly residential, which has minor potential for contaminants, there are significant areas of commercial and industrial land use that can potentially add numerous pollutants to the receiving environments.

Rural Catchments

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Outside of the urban area the land is mainly rural, which is seen as the main source of non- point pollutants (nutrients, fertilisers, animal effluent etc). Farm animal (stock) movements across roads are also potential sources of effluent to streams and waterways.

Point Source Pollutants

Point source pollutants are those that are discharged from an outfall that collects water from a designated catchment. Drains and outfalls from roads carry an undefined range of heavy metals and hydrocarbons associated with both vehicles and the road itself.

Industrial areas also present potential sources of heavy metals and hydrocarbons, and are obviously dependant on the nature and type of industrial activity taking place.

Point sources are easier to control than non-point sources of pollutants

Earthworks

Sediment-laden runoff from earthworks / development sites can have significant impacts on the flora and fauna living within the receiving environment. Apart from increased turbidity, water quality can also be affected by increased loads of nutrients and other contaminants attached to the sediment particles.

Controls are included in all contracts tendered by Council and the District Plan has rules around earthworks. Resource consent is required in cases where the rules are not complied with.

Stormwater Inflow and Infiltration into Wastewater Systems

There are a number of unauthorised overflows from the Wairoa wastewater system into the Wairoa River and onto private property each year. The overflows from the system, including spills from the wastewater treatment plant at Pilot Hill, are in breach of the conditions of the discharge consent.

As well as ageing reticulation and infiltration through the pipes, a key reason for the overflows is inflow of stormwater into the system, especially during high rainfall events. It is essential that these inflows and the infiltration be addressed in order to reduce overflows and to improve health, environmental and economic outcomes.

As noted in the Wastewater Assessment, this is being addressed through a remedial and renewals programme.

7.2.6 Future Environmental and Health Impacts

The key to safeguarding environmental and human health in the foreseeable future is through implementation of ‘best practice’, monitoring, regulations and education.

New development will need to meet or exceed the Council Code of Engineering Practice with resource consents in place to assist in the monitoring of the effectiveness of developmental controls related to earthworks (i.e. detention ponds, sediment ponds and stormwater control). This will ensure sediment will have no more than minor effects on receiving waters.

Industrial and commercial businesses who work with known hazardous substances or contaminants (solvents, acids, hydrocarbons) will need to either treat runoff/stormwater prior to discharge onsite or discharge as trade waste to the sewer system. Council’s Trade Waste Bylaw sets out requirements related to the disposal of trade waste and provides for enforcement action where requirements are not complied with.

Health impacts generally relate to contact with or ingestion of water contaminated with effluent or wastewater overflows. Records show that wastewater overflows are sporadic and are

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typically dealt with efficiently and effectively with appropriate procedures followed and public health warnings issued in the affected areas. Any new development within the urban area is required to connect to the sewage reticulation network which reduces private property health impacts associated with on-site effluent systems.

7.3 QUALITY OF SERVICES

7.3.1 Levels of Service

Council, through the 2015 Stormwater Asset Management Plan, has set levels of service and performance measures related to the delivery of a ‘quality service’. Those identified as ‘Customer’ levels of service are:

LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE CURRENT PERFORMANCE 2015 AMP 2015 AMP (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL REPORT) Council will own, All domestic householders and non- Some changes in levels of operate and domestic premises connected to the performance measures with new maintain a stormwater system will be provided with AMP but in summary: stormwater system a service that that removes stormwater  Systems provided, operated and within the town from their properties maintained as required limits of Wairoa, Tuai and Mahia that Community’s willingness to pay for the  Work undertaken by Contractors will protect service will be considered is completed as required properties from The stormwater system shall be flooding events managed to limit the number of flooding events where ‘flooding event’ means an overflow of stormwater from the stormwater system and the impact of those flooding events on property Customers will Level of customer satisfaction through 2013/14 results did not meet receive a prompt annual survey indicates ‘fairly good’, performance measures, largely a and efficient service ‘very good’ or better result of perceived flooding in heavy rainfall Council shall respond to flooding events Changes in levels of performance measures with new AMP (new The total number of complaints mandatory performance measures) received shall not exceed 50 per 1000 connections Number of queries / complaints received in 2013/14 was 29 (25 in 2012/13)

 System Adequacy – number of floods and the number of habitable floors affected for each of those floods  Discharge Compliance – compliance with resource consents  Fault Response times dependent on urgency of the fault

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 Customer Satisfaction based on the number of complaints received

Each of these performance measures has been incorporated into Council’s levels of service for the stormwater activity under the 2015 Asset Management Plan and the Long Term Plan

Specific targets are then set for the next three years (the life of the Long Term Plan) in relation to each performance measure. These targets are all reported against in Council’s Annual Report.

7.3.2 Delivery of Service Levels

Council implements service levels for stormwater operations through its operational contract, supervised and administered by Council’s Engineering department, which is predominantly performance-based other than emergency and reactive works which are generally undertaken as dayworks.

7.3.3 Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction can be used as an indication of the quality of the service.

Council provides a Customer Service Request (CSR) system whereby customers can phone in, email, write a letter or lodge a request in person. From a record of queries and complaints relating to stormwater through the CSR system) since 2008/09, the following table shows the number of CSRs received each year for the service:

Year 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

No. CSRs 27 49 40 25 24

The majority of the requests were informing the need for drain to be unblocked or flooding – more than 50% of CSRs received

Council also undertakes an Annual Survey to assist in the assessment of customer satisfaction and more importantly to monitor trends over time. Overall, the results of the survey in March 2013 show that 63% of Wairoa residents are satisfied with the stormwater activity (compared to 58% in 2012), 22% are not very satisfied and 15% were unable to comment.

The data shows that the public is, overall, satisfied with Council’s delivery of this service and those that are ‘fairly or very satisfied’ has increased since 2010. Those that are ‘not very satisfied’ has reduced over the last five years.

The main issues/concerns recorded through CSRs or in the annual survey are related to:

 Flooding/surface flooding,  Poor drainage/inadequate system/need attention,

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 Drains get blocked/need clearing/cleaning out/maintenance

7.4 CURRENT AND FUTURE DEMAND

7.4.1 Overview

Whilst the population of Wairoa is declining, it is unlikely that the level of service required will reduce. As a minimum, the current level of operations and maintenance will be required to ensure standards are maintained.

Changes in legislation may require increased levels of service such as treatment of stormwater prior to discharge into rivers or the coastal environment.

It is the responsibility of developers to implement measures including providing stormwater infrastructure, necessary to manage increased stormwater runoff from new developments in alignment with the Council engineering standards. Where improvements or increased capacity to the existing system are required as a consequence of new developments, Council may seek to obtain a financial contribution towards the cost of this from the developer.

7.4.2 Current & Future Capacity Needs

Future demand for increased level of service is likely to be in the form of requests for piping of open drains and demand for stormwater reticulation in areas such as Mahia Beach Township.

Council currently implements an annual programme of piping open drains and this is programmed for continuation over the next 30 years with an annual allocation of $115,000 providing for approximately 100m of piping.

Another area where an increased level of service may be demanded is that of water quality.

The key drivers for current & future demand for stormwater are as follows:

 Population growth/decline,  Increase of Impervious areas due to land building development,  Changes in legislation  Climate change (Increased rainfall/storm events),  Protection of rivers/streams and coastal environment from contaminants contained in stormwater discharge,

Key capital works that have been programmed over the next 30 years to address demand comprises the continuation of an annual provision in the order of $115,000 per annum to continue piping stormwater drains in the urban area.

These capital works are also supported by a renewals programme to ensure assets are adequately maintained to meet current and future demand.

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7.5 COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATORY STANDARDS

7.5.1 Overview

The key regulatory system for stormwater is the Resource Management Act 1991.

With appropriate processes in place to protect the environment and by complying with statutory documents and resource consents, Council’s water supply systems are more likely to meet the relevant regulatory standards.

Specific stormwater problems, which may affect the adequacy of the water supply systems, in relation to regulatory standards, include:

POTENTIAL PROBLEM ACTION

Inflow / Infiltration of Can significantly increase Inflow and infiltration reduced through: stormwater into the flows potentially leading to . Improved asset management wastewater network discharge of unconsented / (through 2015 AMP) untreated wastewater Through joints or cracks in . Enforcement in relation to illegal deteriorated pipes or stormwater connections through illegal stormwater . Education connections Overland flow from Contaminated surface water  Regular monitoring rural and farmland including streams, river and  Public education areas can lead to coastal areas  Enforcement contaminated surface water sources

7.5.2 Resource Consents

The management of stormwater discharges and the quality of the stormwater is governed by resource consents administered by Hawke’s Bay Regional Council.

The table below sets out the current resource consents held by Wairoa District Council for the stormwater asset which are all in relation to stormwater discharge at the Wairoa Landfill.

Consent Number Purpose Expiry Divert and discharge Stormwater into water at Fraser St DP960107W 31/12/31 Landfill Divert and discharge Stormwater into water at Fraser St DP960110D 31/12/31 Landfill Divert and discharge Stormwater into drain at Fraser St WP980241D 31/12/31 Landfill

Conditions of consent include monitoring of the stormwater discharge to ensure standards are maintained and effects on the environment are minimised.

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Under the Hawkes Bay Regional Resource Management Plan, the Wairoa Township stormwater network now needs resource consent. Primarily it is those areas that drain industrial and commercial areas that pose a higher risk of contamination through spillage. Council is working with HBRC in obtaining this consent.

7.5.3 Wairoa District Public Health Status

The key aspect of public health associated with water and sanitary services is that of water- borne illness. Discharge of contaminated stormwater into waterways can have a significant impact on the quality of water and hence the risk of water-borne illnesses through drinking water or recreational activity.

Water borne diseases of concern in New Zealand include giardia, cryptosporidium, campylobacter, hepatitis, salmonella and verotoxic E.coli for example:

From this, we can conclude that Councils’ stormwater provisions across the District are adequate in relation to contamination.

7.6 ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF STORMWATER AND SEWAGE DISCHARGES

 Contaminated surface water  Contaminated groundwater  Potential drinking water contamination  Legal, environmental and health implications

Through a number of means such as building and resource consents, bylaws and policy, Council can control and enforce legislative requirements.

7.7 SUMMARY & IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

7.7.1 Adequacy of Services

In summary, Council is required to undertake a periodic assessment of its water and sanitary services, including stormwater, and to determine the adequacy of those services.

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The table below outlines the adequacy of the stormwater services provided by Wairoa District Council in relation to the purpose of the assessment as set out in section 126 of the Local Government Act.

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7.7.2 Improvement Planning

Council has adopted a strategic management approach to improvement planning, continually developing, and implementing improvement processes and practices. Improvement Planning is integral to that approach. An Improvement Plan is in place for the Stormwater Activity through the 2015 Stormwater Asset Management Plan. This is focussed on improved asset management, such as setting appropriate renewal programmes based on sound asset data, to ensure a cost-effective service

The Schedule below addresses improvements in relation to the adequacy of the services provided by Council and relate to the factors included in Section 126 of the LGA 2002.

Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(a)  Monitor statistics for water-borne diseases in the district that may Environmental Health  Ongoing indicate contaminated water supplies as a result of contaminated Officer / Engineering Risks associated with  Monitoring no additional waterways Manager Absence or Deficiencies in cost / investigation costs to Stormwater System be determined as required  Continued education and enforcement on discharge of Environmental Health  Ongoing contaminants into surface water through overland flow such as from Officer with HBRC / farmland and point discharges from industrial and commercial Engineering Manager properties  Ensure overland flow paths are identified and protected Utilities Engineer /  Ongoing and through data Engineering Manager entry  Ensure building code, district plan rules are enforced in relation to Building officer &  Ongoing areas prone to flooding district planner /  Costs generally recovered Regulatory Manager through consent applications 126(b)  Identify gaps between levels of service, customer expectation and Internal resources /  Ongoing options to close those gaps Engineering Manager Quality of service  Monitor LTP / AMP  Continue to monitor annual performance measures / targets with a consultation process half-year review process to be put in place to review progress towards the performance measures and targets  Develop and Implement condition assessment programme with Utilities Engineer with  Commence 2015/16 renewals programme to follow consultant support /  $10,000,000 over 30 years Engineering Manager

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Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(c)  Continue to monitor communities in relation to potential growth that Internal resources / Ongoing may require or benefit from public systems in the future Engineering Manager Current and estimated Future demand 126(d)  Application for discharge consent – Wairoa Consultant to prepare $100,000 provide in 2015/17  Compliance with resultant conditions of consent application / for application and Compliance of water supplies Engineering Manager implementation of with regulatory Standards requirements  Address inflow and infiltration through developing appropriate Utilities Engineer with  Ongoing renewals programme. external support as  Provision of $150,000 to necessary eg for $200,000 per annum for  Implement measures to minimise stormwater contamination caused modelling, CCTV / next 30 years for renewals by cross connections, stormwater infiltration to sanitary sewers and Engineering Manager programming and flooding of sewage pump stations implementation 126(e)  Ensure education programmes, generally with Hawkes Bay Internal / Regional Ongoing Regional Council, continue Council Actual or potential consequences of stormwater  Civil defense education and sewage discharges  Ensure enforcement action taken as appropriate where rules / bylaws are breached

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8 CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA ASSESSMENT

8.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITY IN WAIROA

The long term focus for Cemeteries is to continue to own, operate and maintain Council’s pubic cemeteries in order to meet the needs of the community in relation to public health and safety.

Council owns five public cemeteries for the district in:  Wairoa  Nuhaka  Frasertown  Morere  Ruakituri

Only the Wairoa, Nuhaka and Ruakituri Cemeteries are currently operating although all cemeteries have some capacity

It should be noted that although Council assumes the role as a provider of services within the community, there are private service providers operating within and outside the District that also service community needs.

8.1.1 Wairoa Cemetery

The Wairoa cemetery, located at Fraser Street, has been in operation since 1871 and provides for approximately 50% of the District’s interments. The cemetery has a current area of 7.12 ha and has in excess of 10 more year’s capacity. The actual area set aside for cemetery reserve is approximately 12 ha.

There are approximately 270 burial plots, 86 ash plots and a remaining vacant area that has not yet been laid out, which could accommodate another 100 – 150 plots.

8.1.2 Frasertown Cemetery

According to Council records the Frasertown cemetery operated from 1875 through to 1962 and is currently closed although there is potential to provide extra depth burials in circumstances where a partner is already interred.

The cemetery has historic significance and in the past maintenance of the asset has been carried out by the Frasertown Domain Board although the maintenance has been handed back to Council and is undertaken on an as-needed basis.

8.1.3 Morere Cemetery

According to Council records the Morere cemetery operated from 1903 through to 1947 and is currently closed. The approximate size of the cemetery is 0.16 ha.

There are approximately 58 available plots, with a number reserved for future use.

8.1.4 Nuhaka Cemetery

Established around the 1980s, an agreement exists between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) and Council to operate the cemetery, which is managed on a day-to-day basis by LDS.

This cemetery has significant capacity for future use. Cemeteries and Crematoria Assessment 68 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

8.1.5 Ruakituri Cemetery

Council also operates a facility at Ruakituri. Information is limited regarding this facility although it is understood that a large percentage of the property is available for future use.

8.1.6 Other Council Owned Sites

The Wairoa District Plan provides information related to other Council owned and maintained sites/reserves, those being:

 Reserve ref R35 – Mahia East Coast Road, Burial Ground  Reserve ref R43 – Papuni Road, Ruakituri Valley, Public Cemetery Reserve

8.1.7 Privately Owned Cemeteries

There are a number of privately owned cemeteries in the district, generally associated with marae (urupā), families and those located in Churchyards.

The total number of urupā that may exist across the district is unknown. It is expected most marae (33) will have an associated urupā, in addition to historical urupā around the region.

The local Anglican, Catholic and Presbyterian Churches do not have cemeteries located within their churchyards. The LDS church at Nuhaka, operates the facility under a formal agreement with Council. In addition, there are a number of family owned cemeteries located throughout the District.

8.1.8 Crematoria

There are no crematoria in Wairoa District. Gisborne crematoria and occasionally Napier typically provide cremation services.

This arrangement appears to adequately provide for the current demand for cremation services in the District. There have not been any specific requests from the community for a local crematorium and it is unlikely that a crematorium provided by Council would be economically feasible for the district.

8.2 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ABSENCE OF OR DEFICIENCY IN CEMETERY SERVICES.

8.2.1 Overview

Risk in relation to cemeteries is addressed by Council through:  The Cemeteries Asset Management Plan (asset management focus)  Risk Register (from corporate to operational risk)

8.2.2 Risk Management Process

The risk management process identifies the risk events, the likelihood of those risks occurring and the consequences of those risks should they occur.

Risk = Likelihood (1-5) x Consequence (1-5)

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8.2.3 Health Risks related to the Cemetery Activity

The table below outlines the potential health risks associated with the cemeteries activity, the recommended management of those risks and Council’s current status in dealing with the risks:

RECOMMENDED CURRENT STATUS / RISK DESCRIPTION MANAGEMENT OF RISK COMMENT Contamination of  Formaldehyde, Restrict any potential  Formaldehyde groundwater and the chemical threats through the use degrades rapidly in water supply source commonly used of standard burial the subsurface under from chemicals or in burials, can practices, creating buffer typical environmental microbiological infiltrate into the zones (using deep conditions with the contaminants surrounding rooted trees and shrubs potential to migrate associated with ground. that assist in the away from the site burial sites  Risk from attenuation of potential considered to be microbiological contaminants). minimal contaminants  The potential including microbiological viruses, bacteria contamination is and pathogens. determined by their ability to survive in the subsurface, the nature of the subsurface material and the depth of the water table. Shallow groundwater is more vulnerable to contamination

Exposure of burial There are burial sites  Log and monitor  Where identified and sites through in low-lying coastal burial sites at risk / or where coastal erosion areas that have been from exposure due to information is identified as being coastal erosion as available, coastal potentially affected they are identified or burial sites have by coastal erosion. as information is been logged made available  This issue has been  communicate with raised by a number the appropriate of groups owners to ascertain if Are a number of private appropriate action is burial sites that are being proposed to unknown to Council ensure public health & cultural issues are being addressed  investigate planned retreat and management of these areas in consultation with relevant land owners

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8.3 QUALITY OF SERVICES

8.3.1 Levels of Service

Council, through the 2015 Cemeteries Asset Management Plan, has set levels of service and performance measures related to the delivery of a ‘quality service’. Those identified as ‘Customer’ levels of service are:

CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT) Council will continue to own and The provision of cemetery land Performance measure met deliver a cemetery service shall be adequate for current and suitable for the current and foreseeable demand foreseeable needs of the community Customers will receive a prompt Level of customer satisfaction 79% satisfaction and efficient service through annual survey indicates a ‘fairly good’, ‘very good’ or better minimum 80% approval rating How the service is delivered to CSR system in place the community will be monitored Ave of less than 3 CSRs received through the CSR system per annum over last 7 years

Specific targets are then set for the next three years (the life of the Long Term Plan) in relation to each performance measure. These targets are all reported against in Council’s Annual Report.

While the population is declining, the substantive level of service required from Cemeteries is unlikely to reduce. By way of example, even if the Wairoa cemetery was closed to new burials today there would be an amenity level of service demanded from the community that would cost similar to maintaining the cemetery as it is now.

8.3.2 Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction can be used as an indication of the quality of the service provided.

Council provides a Customer Service Request (CSR) system whereby customers can phone in, email, write a letter or lodge a request in person. From a record of queries and complaints relating to cemeteries through the CSR system) since 2008/09, the following table shows the number of CSRs received each year:

Year 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2023/14

No. CSRs 3 7 3 1 1 2

The types of issues related to the water activity typically include;

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 Grave maintenance (sunken graves),  General enquiries eg regards opening times  Vandalism of head stones, and  Informing (tree down, stormwater issues).

Council also undertakes an Annual Survey to assist in the assessment of customer satisfaction and more importantly to monitor trends over time. Overall, the results to March 2013 show that 79% of Wairoa residents are satisfied with the cemetery activity (compared to 78% in 2012). 5% are not very satisfied and 16% were unable to comment. The data shows that the public is, overall, satisfied with Council’s delivery of this service and that are ‘not very satisfied’ remains low demonstrating a quality service.

8.4 CURRENT AND FUTURE DEMAND

8.4.1 Overview

Key Drivers of demand for the Cemeteries activity will include:  The declining population and the associated ability of the community to pay for the service  Changes in demographics, in particular the ageing population  Changes in customer preferences eg move towards cremations  Changes in legislation

8.4.2 Future Demand

The Burial and Cremation Act 1964 does not allow the reuse of land that has been used for burial purposes. It is not anticipated that the legislation will change in this regard.

The Wairoa cemetery has approximately 270 burial plots, 86 ash plots and a remaining vacant area that has not yet been laid out, which could accommodate another 100 – 150 plots. The actual area set aside for cemetery reserve is approximately 12 ha. Based on current demand, it is anticipated that the Wairoa Cemetery has in excess of 10 years remaining capacity.

It is unlikely that there will be demand for a crematorium in Wairoa in the future. It is anticipated that such services in Gisborne and Hawkes Bay will be adequate to serve the Wairoa community. There have not been any specific requests from the community for a local crematorium and it is unlikely that a crematorium provided by Council would be economically feasible for the District

The key demand management discussion for Council at present is whether to open a public cemetery at Mahia. As discussed above it is likely that the majority of burials to occur in a new cemetery at Mahia would be ones that otherwise would occur in Wairoa.

With an estimated capacity in excess of ten years for the Wairoa Cemetery, it is considered that there is capacity to accommodate additional demand should there be an emergency event such as a pandemic or earthquake that result in a sudden rise in the number of deaths. However, Council should more formally identify land that would be available if the cemetery reaches capacity Cemeteries and Crematoria Assessment 72 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

Key capital works that have been programmed over the next 10 years to address demand include:

WORKS TIMEFRAME BUDGET

New Beams in the Lower Cemetery 2015/20 $45,000

Wairoa Cemetery Drainage System 2015/16 $50,000

New Cemetery investigation / Development 2024/25 $150,000

These capital works are also supported by a renewals programme to ensure assets are adequately maintained to meet current and future demand.

8.5 COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATORY STANDARDS

8.5.1 Overview

8.5.2 Burial and Cremation Act 1964

Under the Burial and Cremation Act (1964) Local Authorities are required to provide and maintain cemeteries. The Act covers the establishment, maintenance, closing and regulation of cemeteries, burial grounds and cremation, however the Act does not apply to Māori burial grounds (urupā).

Section 4(1) states: Local authorities to provide cemeteries – (1) “It shall be the duty of every local authority, where sufficient provision is not otherwise made for the burial of the bodies of persons dying while within its district, to establish and maintain a suitable cemetery.”

Council intends to remain responsible for the provision of the cemetery activity now and in the future, and considers the provision and management of such to be an essential function.

8.5.3 Potential Contamination of Water Supply

Specifically related to water supply and compliance with regulations, there have been a number of studies internationally that relate to the potential risks posed by cemeteries. Formaldehyde, the chemical commonly used, degrades rapidly in the subsurface under typical environmental conditions. The potential for migration away from the site is therefore considered minimal. There is also a potential risk from microbiological contaminants including viruses, bacteria and pathogens. The potential for contamination by these agents is determined by their ability to survive in the subsurface, the nature of the subsurface material and the depth of the water table. Shallow groundwater is potentially vulnerable to contamination.

Actual raw data related to public health risks from cemeteries is limited. Council can restrict any potential threats through the use of standard burial practices, creating buffer zones (using deep rooted trees and shrubs that assist in the attenuation of potential contaminants).

In summary, there is no evidence to suggest that Councils cemeteries are causing any adverse effects that may affect public health or environmental health, in particular affecting drinking water supplies. Cemeteries and Crematoria Assessment 73 Wairoa District Council Water & Sanitary Services Assessment 2015

8.6 ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF STORMWATER AND SEWAGE DISCHARGES

The potential for adverse consequences of stormwater or sewage discharges in relation to the cemeteries activity are considered to be minimal.

8.7 SUMMARY & IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

8.7.1 Adequacy of Services

In summary, Council is required to undertake a periodic assessment of its cemetery services and to determine the adequacy of those services.

The table below outlines the adequacy of the services provided by Wairoa District Council in relation to the purpose of the assessment as set out in section 126 of the Local Government Act.

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

(a) the health risks to Council is required by legislation to provide cemetery services communities arising from where they are not provided by other private means. any absence of, or deficiency in, water or With the Wairoa and other public cemeteries, Council is ensuring other sanitary services that health risks associated with no such services is eliminated. The option of a Mahia cemetery is under consideration to ensure the communities in the Mahia area are adequately provided for. In terms of the existing services provided by Council, the cemetery service is considered adequate in relation to health risks; there is an estimated 10 years plus capacity and the cemeteries are managed by Council with an operations and maintenance contract in place to ensure burial services are provided and that the cemeteries are well maintained. Cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the service. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of service currently available to agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are largely communities within the related to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a reducing number of complaints, cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality if the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Cemeteries Asset Management Plan addresses this in future demands for such detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed from services a sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognises that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand

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Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

(d) the extent to which The provision of cemetery services means that burials are drinking water provided by undertaken in a controlled manner. Council uses standard burial water supply services practices, creating buffer zones (using deep rooted trees and shrubs meets applicable that assist in the attenuation of potential contaminants) to minimise regulatory standards the likelihood of adverse effects on public or environmental health including contamination of water supply sources. Cemetery services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of prevention of contamination of water supplies (e) the actual or potential Potential risks associated with stormwater or sewage discharges in consequences of relation to cemeteries is considered to be minimal. stormwater and sewage discharges within the district

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8.7.2 Improvement Planning

Council has adopted a strategic management approach to improvement planning, continually developing, and implementing improvement processes and practices. Improvement Planning is integral to that approach. An Improvement Plan is in place for the Cemeteries Activity through the 2015 Cemeteries Asset Management Plan. This is focussed on improved asset management, such as setting appropriate renewal programmes based on sound asset data, to ensure a cost-effective service

The Schedule below addresses improvements in relation to the adequacy of the services provided by Council and relate to the factors included in Section 126 of the LGA 2002.

Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(a)  Continue to monitor capacity of public cemeteries Internal resources /  Ongoing Engineering Manager  Minimal additional Risks associated with Absence or  Monitor coastal areas for erosion and exposure of burial sites Deficiencies in Cemetery Services costs  Maintain an up-to-date record of private burial sites / urupa, noting any potential risks  Develop contingency plans to address actual / potential exposure Internal resources / For 2018 AMP/LTP of burial Engineering Manager Estimated cost <$5,000 126(b)  Identify gaps between levels of service, customer expectation and Internal resources /  Ongoing options to close those gaps Engineering Manager Quality of service  Monitor LTP / AMP  Continue to monitor annual performance measures / targets with consultation process a half-year review process to be put in place to review progress towards the performance measures and targets  Develop and Implement condition assessment programme (visual Engineering Officer /  Commence 2015/16 assessment as minimum) with renewals programme to follow Engineering Manager  $45,000 provision over 10 years 126(c)  Continue to monitor capacity of public cemeteries Engineering Officer / Ongoing Engineering Manager Current and estimated Future $150,000 provided for demand  Further consideration of development of a public cemetery at Mahia 2024/25

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Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(d)  Monitor the capacity of existing cemeteries and the need for Engineering Officer /  Ongoing future provisions including any additional services such as Engineering Manager Compliance of water supplies with  Minimal additional crematoria regulatory Standards costs  Continue to use standard burial practices such as providing buffer zones

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9 PUBLIC TOILETS ASSESSMENT

9.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF FACILITIES

9.1.1 Public Toilet Facilities

The long term focus for Council is to continue to own, operate and maintain appropriate toilet facilities to meet the needs of the community in relation to public health and safety.

These facilities are typically located in towns and reserves and private contractors carry out maintenance on behalf of Council.

A number of the public toilet facilities, including Raupunga and Tuai are maintained by the local community under agreement with Council. As such a local resident takes care of the maintenance for those systems.

The majority of toilets within Wairoa are connected to the Council owned reticulated system. Facilities in the Mahia Beach Township are now connected to the recently constructed wastewater system. Other facilities on the Mahia Peninsular, in Nuhaka, Raupunga and Tuai are reliant on septic tanks for treatment. The table overleaf provides a breakdown of these systems, including water supply, type of disposal and the assets available for each facility.

Public Toilets at Mahia Beach Public Toilets at Mahanga Beach

9.1.2 Privately Owned Facilities

Although Council assumes the role as a provider of services within the community, there are a number of toilets operated and maintained by other organisations that are available for public use. These include service stations, Regional parks, Restaurants and Cafes, Department of Conservation facilities and privately owned campgrounds (Mahia Beach Motel and Holiday Park, and Riverside Motor Camp).

Under Section 29 of the Health Act 1956, Council has the powers to act should any sanitary convenience not meet the reasonable needs of the community/users or be offensive or is likely to be “injurious to health”.

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Table of Public Toilet Facilities

No of No. of Pans Hand Potable Peak Use Serviced Disposal Location Urinals Washing Water System M F Unisex Period Peak Off Peak Wairoa North Clyde 1 1 Unisex Yes Yes Year Round Daily Daily Reticulated Clyde Court 2 4 1 Yes Yes Year Round Daily Daily Reticulated Council Chambers 1 1 Unisex Yes Yes Year Round Daily Daily Reticulated Airport 1 1 1 Yes Yes Year Round Daily Daily Septic Tank Upper Cemetery 1 Unisex Yes Yes Year Round Weekly Weekly Septic Tank Lower Cemetery 1 1 0 Yes Yes Year Round Weekly Weekly Reticulated Mahia Mahia Beach 1 2 1 Yes No Christmas Holidays Daily Twice per week Reticulated Mahanga 1 1 Unisex Yes No Christmas Holidays Daily Twice per week Septic Tank Oraka 1 1 1 Yes No Christmas Holidays Daily Twice per week Septic Tank Blacks Beach 1 Unisex Yes No Christmas Holidays Daily Twice per week Septic Tank Opoutama / Blue Bay 1 1 1 Yes No Christmas Holidays Daily Twice per week Reticulated Other Nuhaka 1 1 0 Yes No Christmas Holidays Daily Twice per week Septic Tank Raupunga 1 2 1 Yes No Year Round Daily Daily Septic Tank Tuai 1 1 0 Yes No Year Round Daily Daily Septic Tank

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9.2 RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ABSENCE OF OR DEFICIENCY IN PUBLIC TOILET SERVICES.

9.2.1 Overview

Section 23 of the Health Act 1956 requires that every local authority shall ‘improve, promote, and protect public health within its district’

Section 25 of the Health Act requires local authorities to provide sanitary services including public toilets

Risk in relation to public toilets is addressed by Council through:  The Parks and Reserves Asset Management Plan (asset management focus)  Risk Register (from corporate to operational risk)

9.2.2 Health Risks related to Public Toilets

The adequacy of toilet facilities depends not only on the number of facilities provided but also their cleanliness, state of repair and opening times and suitability for people with differing needs

The list below outlines the potential health risks associated with public toilets:

Risks Associated with Absence of Facilities  Fouling of streets  Health impacts on those that need to use toilets frequently etc

Risks Associated with Inadequate Facilities  Inadequate hand-washing facilities can lead to illness and disease  People not using the facilities and consequently the same risks as no facility  Restricted opening times meaning people unable to use the facilities

Using local communities to maintain facilities leads to a sense of ownership and can reduce problems associated with graffiti / vandalism. This has been demonstrated in Raupunga and Tuai

9.3 QUALITY OF SERVICES

9.3.1 Levels of Service

Public toilet facilities are included as part of the Parks and Reserves Asset Management Plan with many of the facilities located on reserves. Council, through the 2015 AMP, has set levels of service and performance measures related to the delivery of a ‘quality service’. Those identified as ‘Customer’ levels of service are:

CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT)

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CURRENT PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE MEASURE (FROM 2013/14 ANNUAL 2015 AMP 2015 AMP REPORT) Council will continue to provide parks The provision of land and Compliance and reserves with associated facilities facilities shall be adequate to meet the current and foreseeable for current and foreseeable desires of the community demand Customers will receive a prompt and Level of customer 70% satisfaction efficient service satisfaction through annual survey indicates a ‘fairly good’, ‘very good’ or better minimum 80% approval rating How the service is CSR system in place delivered to the community 15 CSRs in 203/14 (none will be monitored through related specifically to public the CSR system toilets)

Specific targets are then set for the next three years (the life of the Long Term Plan) in relation to each performance measure. These targets are all reported against in Council’s Annual Report.

While the population is declining, the substantive level of service required from Parks and Reserves and associated facilities is unlikely to reduce.

9.3.2 Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction can be used as an indication of the quality of the service provided.

Council provides a Customer Service Request (CSR) system whereby customers can phone in, email, write a letter or lodge a request in person. From a record of queries and complaints relating to parks and reserves through the CSR system) since 2008/09, the following table shows the number of CSRs received each year:

Year 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14

No. CSRs 3 14 12 5 7 15

The types of issues related to the Parks and Reserves activity include:

 Public Toilets – general maintenance (none in 203/14),  Vandalism and Graffiti  Safety issues in particular related to playground equipment

Council has targets to reach when receiving requests for service which are monitored and reported on yearly in the Annual Plan. Council has a target for reducing the number of CSRs each.

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not very satisfied and 5% were unable to comment. The data shows that the public is, overall, satisfied with Council’s delivery of this service, including public toilets.

9.4 CURRENT & FUTURE DEMAND

9.4.1 Overview

Key Drivers of demand for the Public Toilets activity will include:  The declining population and the associated ability of the community to pay for the service  Community desire for the service, in particular the number and location of facilities.  Changes in legislation

9.4.2 Population

As discussed in Section 2, the population of Wairoa is predicted to continue to decline in the future.

However, it is unlikely that the level of service will reduce in relation to the provision of public toilet facilities. There are no proposals to discontinue any of the facilities at this stage.

9.4.3 Impacts of Tourism

The population in parts of the district grows significantly during holiday periods, in particular in the Mahia area. Such an influx in visitor numbers places increased pressure on facilities and consumables for both private and publicly owned systems.

Council is currently developing initiatives to increase economic growth through such activities as tourism which may impact further on facilities.

9.4.4 Growth and Demand Options

Mahia continues to be the pressure point within the district for the provision of toilet facilities.

Holiday growth has been supplemented by “port-a-loos” in the past. Currently Council feels that the requirement for an additional permanent facility in Mahia is not warranted and will maintain the usage of seasonal facilities to cope with the extra demand placed during the summer period. However, there is provision for an upgrade of the Mokatahi toilets at Mahia Beach in the 2014/15 financial year.

Partly related to Council’s revitalisation project for Wairoa, a feasibility study is to be undertaken for a new public toilet facility on Marine Parade in Wairoa.

Key capital and renewals works that have been programmed over the next 10 years to address demand include:

WORKS TIMEFRAME BUDGET

Marine Parade Toilets 2014/15 $250,000

Oraka Beach Renewals 2015/16 $250,000

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WORKS TIMEFRAME BUDGET

Mokotahi Toilets Upgrade 2014/15 $50,000

Raupunga Toilets Renewals 2014/15 $10,000

These works are also supported by a renewals programme to ensure assets are adequately maintained to meet current and future demand.

9.4.5 Private Facilities

Facilities are also provided by a number of other organisations such as private camp sites, Department of Conservation, cafes, service stations etc. Council considers that in conjunction with these facilities that it provides an adequate number of toilets to service the needs in the district. However, Council is not aware of all private facilities available for public use and this is an area of improvement that will assist in ensuring adequate provision for the community and visitors.

9.5 COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATORY STANDARDS

The potential for the public toilets to have any adverse effect in relation to compliance of water supplies with relevant regulatory standards is considered to be minimal. The exception could be where the sewage disposal method is on-site and there is a nearby water supply source. In these cases, provided consent conditions are complied with, the potential for adverse effects will be no more than minimal.

9.6 ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF STORMWATER AND SEWAGE DISCHARGES

The potential for adverse consequences of stormwater or sewage discharges in relation to public toilets are considered to be minimal.

9.7 SUMMARY & IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

9.7.1 Adequacy of Services

In summary, Council is required to undertake a periodic assessment of its public toilets services and to determine the adequacy of those services.

The table below outlines the adequacy of the services provided by Wairoa District Council in relation to the purpose of the assessment as set out in section 126 of the Local Government Act.

Section 126, sub-section Adequacy in the Wairoa District

other sanitary services of facilities and, as such, is ensuring that health risks associated with no such services is eliminated. In terms of the existing services, all public toilets are managed by Council through maintenance and operations, ensuring health risks associated with the facilities are minimised. Public Toilet services provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of health risks associated with the absence of or deficiencies in the service. (b) the quality of services Requirements in terms of quality are largely set by levels of service currently available to agreed through the Long Term Plan process. These are largely related communities within the to the provision of a prompt and efficient service. district For each level of service, performance measures and annual targets are set which are a measure of the quality of the service provided by Council. Annual surveys, undertaken on behalf of Council, are also a measure of the quality of service. Based on recent surveys and a limited number of complaints, public toilet facilities provided by Wairoa are considered adequate in terms of the quality of the service provided. (c) the current and estimated The 2015 Parks and Reserves Asset Management Plan addresses this future demands for such in detail with a capital and renewals programme to be developed from a services sound assessment of existing infrastructure and changes in demand. The AMP recognises that changes in demand are not only related to population but also to agreed levels of service and changes in legislation. Public toilet facilities provided by Wairoa and planned for the next 10 years are considered adequate in terms of current and estimated future demand (d) the extent to which The provision of public toilet facilities will have minimal effect on water drinking water provided by supplies. The exception may be where toilets with on-site wastewater water supply services disposal systems are located near water supply sources. However, meets applicable provided a resource consent is in place and conditions are met, adverse regulatory standards effects will be no more than minimal. Public toilet facilities provided by Wairoa are considered to have minimal impact on water supplies meeting relevant regulatory standards (e) the actual or potential Potential risks associated with stormwater or sewage discharges in consequences of relation to public toilets is considered to be minimal. stormwater and sewage discharges within the district

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9.7.2 Improvement Planning

Council has adopted a strategic management approach to improvement planning, continually developing, and implementing improvement processes and practices. Improvement Planning is integral to that approach. Public toilets are covered in the 2015 Parks and Reserves Asset Management Plan. This is focussed on improved asset management, such as setting appropriate renewal programmes based on sound asset data, to ensure a cost-effective service

The Schedule below addresses improvements in relation to the adequacy of the services provided by Council and relate to the factors included in Section 126 of the LGA 2002.

Resources / Timeframe / Cost Section Description Officer in Charge Indication 126(a)  Continue to monitor use of toilet facilities Internal resources /  Ongoing Engineering Manager Risks associated with Absence or  Minimal additional Deficiencies in Cemetery Services  Maintain an up-to-date record of private facilities costs 126(b)  Identify gaps between levels of service, customer expectation and Internal resources /  Ongoing options to close those gaps Engineering Manager Quality of service  Monitor LTP / AMP  Continue to monitor annual performance measures / targets with consultation process a half-year review process to be put in place to review progress towards the performance measures and targets  Develop and Implement condition assessment programme (visual Engineering Officer /  Commence 2015/16 assessment as minimum) with renewals programme to follow Engineering Manager 126(c)  Continue to monitor use of toilet facilities Engineering Officer / Ongoing Engineering Manager Current and estimated Future demand  Further consideration of additional / upgrade of facilities Consultants &  $250,000 provided Contractors / for 2014/15 for  Identification of private facilities used by the public Engineering Manager Marine Parade  $50,000 Mokotahi Upgrade 2014/15 126(d)  Monitor water supplies for compliance with relevant standards Utilities Engineer /  Ongoing Engineering Manager Compliance of water supplies with  Minimal additional regulatory Standards costs

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10 SOLID WASTE ASSESSMENT

The Waste Minimisation Act (WMA), which was introduced in 2008, gives Council more responsibility in managing waste.

Under Section 42 of the Act, Council must ‘promote effective and efficient waste management and minimisation within its district’.

Council is required to produce a Waste Management and Minimisation Plan (WMMP) under section 43. Council’s 2012 WMMP describes how waste in managed in the Wairoa District, how the Council suggests communities should manage waste in the future, and what can be done to make it happen.

Under Section 51 of the Act, the WMMP must include an assessment of the solid waste activity which includes a statement about the extent to which the proposals will:

i. ensure that public health is adequately protected: ii. promote effective and efficient waste management and minimisation

With a Waste Management and Minimisation Plan in place, a separate assessment of the Solid Waste Activity is not required in this Water and Sanitary Services Assessment.

Solid Waste Assessment 86