Katikati Outfall Pipe Dye Testing Tuesday 28 April 2026
Water
Western Bay of Plenty District Council will be undertaking dye testing in the Tauranga Harbour near Katikati to help investigate a potential issue with the wastewater outfall pipe.
What’s happening?
A non-toxic tracing dye will be added to treated wastewater and discharged through the outfall pipe as part of normal operations. This will allow us to track the flow and identify any possible leaks.
When and where?
- Date: Tuesday, 28 April 2026
- Time: From approximately 9.00am
- Duration: Around 3–4 hours
- Location: Tauranga Harbour, approximately 3.2km from Prospect Drive, near Matakana Island (ocean side of the island, at the outfall diffuser)
What should you expect?
- You may notice a coloured dye in the water during this time.
- A drone will be operating in the area to help monitor and locate the dye plume.
Is it safe?
Yes. The dye being used is a non-toxic Bailey Drain Tracing Dye and poses no risk to people, marine life, or the environment.
Why are we doing this?
This testing will help us identify whether there is a leak in the outfall pipe so we can take the appropriate next steps to maintain the integrity of our wastewater system.
