Water Treatment Plant open day a success

Lots of people turned up to the Waikanae Water Treatment Plant open day on Saturday to check out recent improvements to the plant, the new River Recharge Scheme and how water is treated.

The 1970s-built treatment plant was open to the public who were taken on tours in small groups to see the how the facility has been upgraded with new buildings, equipment, and chemical and electrical systems.

They were also shown the River Recharge Scheme which will enable bore water to be added below the plant during try times, so it doesn’t enter drinking supply. Laboratory staff were on hand to explain how bugs are removed from river water.

Reikorangi resident Paul Murton said his tour around the plant restored his faith in the district’s water supply.

“You can see how thorough the treatment process is and the dedication of the people there.”

Council’s Water & Wastewater Treatment Plants Manager Dave Bassett said he was pleased to see so many people visit the plant to look at the upgrades and how the processes work.

“It was great to see so many enjoying the day and everyone I spoke to was impressed with the extent of what goes on and the calibre of the staff working to make the water safe to drink.”