Project Start Year: 2024
Stage One of the Ford Road Pump Station in the Kaituna catchment was completed in 2024 and involved upgrading the existing drain network. Stage Two involves installing a new pump station at another site. Stage 3 involves decommissioning of the old pump station.
Benefits and Adaptation
In September 2024, Council approved an ‘Archimedes’ screw pump option for this project. This type of pump is designed to effectively move flood waters from the low-lying scheme areas over stopbanks into the river. It is the most fish-friendly pump available on the market, providing certainty for the safe passage of tuna, and allows for relatively low energy consumption.
Resilience
Stage 1 of this work involved widening approximately 1.6km of drains, removing two existing box culverts and a bridge, and installing three new bridges. A farm access track was also realigned, and new riparian planting was put in along both sides of the drains. Getting this work done has improved the flow of stormwater through the existing drainage channels helping to reduce potential flooding. This work supports the new pump station location.
Collaboration
Bay of Plenty Regional Council has worked with Central Government to support funding of these stages of the project through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF). This co-investment is key to help fund critical flood protection infrastructure, including stopbanks, floodwalls and pump stations across the region.
To find out more please visit: Ford Road Pump Station upgrade.
