Katikati Wastewater Treatment Plant Outfall Pipe Leak 3 March 2026

As part of our ongoing work to protect the harbour and maintain the Katikati wastewater system, routine testing on the outfall pipe has shown a leak in the line.

The Katikati Wastewater Treatment Plant discharges its wastewater via a pipeline route from the Prospect Drive treatment plant across Tauranga Harbour to off Matakana Island.

We are currently working with Toi-Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Toi Te Ora Public Health, and our iwi partners to locate and fix the leak. Te Ohu Waiora - Katikati Wastewater Disposal Future Directions group has also been made aware of the situation.

Like past incidents, we’ll be adding a dye to the treated effluent and then put drones to determine the proximity of the leak. This will be starting today.

There will be boats and drones flying in harbour and the public might see a green plume. The dye we are using is safe for the environment. Normal navigational rules apply around the boats.

It is important to note that this is treated wastewater and has been through the ultraviolet light treatment process. However, warning signs have been installed at the water’s edge cautioning the public not to consume any shellfish or swim in the water until this has been resolved.
Area: Tauranga Harbour between Prospect Drive and Matakana Island
Type: Non-Toxic Tracer Dye
Reason: To locate possible break in outfall pipe
Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours