Foxton Wastewater Dispersal Project

Project of the Year (New Zealand) | Think Water Hawkes Bay

More than eight kilometres of pipework, over 200 impact sprinklers and challenging terrain made the Foxton Wastewater Dispersal Project a substantial undertaking for Think Water Hawke’s Bay. Recognised with the 2026 Project of the Year Award for New Zealand, the project combined a large installation with the practical demands of working away from home and managing an extensive supply of materials.

Valued at more than NZ$450,000 plus GST, the project required pipework ranging from 32mm to 110mm in diameter and more than 1,300 labour hours. The nomination highlighted the camaraderie among the team as they overcame difficult conditions and brought the installation together, completing the work under time and on budget.

The terrain presented one of the biggest challenges. Rugged hill country containing pines and native vegetation gave way to dunes with soft footing and long grass. Across this varied landscape, the team installed the extensive pipe network and sprinkler system, working through conditions that added to the demands of an already sizeable project.

Delivery also required a considerable commitment away from home. Multiple staff spent weeks living together in shared accommodation, returning home on weekends. The nomination identified these extended periods away as a challenge, while recognising the team spirit that helped bring the project together.

Behind the installation was a substantial stock-control operation. More than 500 lines of materials were divided into project zones, received at the store and packed into dedicated bins. These were then delivered to site and installed. Organising the materials by zone provided a structured approach to handling the volume of components required across the project.

The installation incorporated medium-density polyethylene pipe from Waters & Farr, impact sprinklers and fittings from Water Supply Products, galvanised risers from Steel & Tube, and solenoid valves from Deeco. These products formed part of the extensive wastewater dispersal system delivered by Think Water Hawke’s Bay.

The wider importance of land-based wastewater irrigation is highlighted in Horowhenua District Council’s update on Foxton’s wastewater services. The council reports that its completed irrigation expansion makes full use of the 13-hectare area at Matakarapa Island, helping manage higher volumes during heavy rain and reduce river discharges. It also identifies healthier waterways and ecosystems, and more sustainable wastewater services, as benefits of the upgrade.

For Think Water Hawkes Bay, the award recognises a delivery effort extending well beyond the installation itself. Difficult terrain, weeks away from home, and hundreds of stock lines were all part of the challenge. Completing the project under time and on budget brought those elements together into a significant achievement for the business and the wider Think Water network