Earth Tech Breaks Ground on New Zealand Facility
Earth Tech, Inc., of Long Beach, Calif., started construction of the $39.9 million Mangawhai EcoCare Wastewater Scheme in New Zealand.
Construction began Jan. 14 with a Karakia, a customary New Zealand blessing, and an official ground-breaking celebration to recognize the significance of this major community infrastructure project
Earth Tech designed the complete wastewater scheme for Mangawhai Township, a popular beach resort located in a sensitive estuary and marine environment 1.5 hours north of Auckland. The company also will be responsible for the construction, commissioning and operation of the scheme on behalf of the Kaipara District Council for up to 10 years. The scope of operations includes collection, pumping, treatment and disposal of all wastewater and biosolids. The EcoCare Scheme is scheduled for completion in July 2009.
The Mangawhai EcoCare Wastewater Scheme includes sewers, pumping stations, rising main, wastewater treatment plant, reclaimed water transfer pipeline and reclaimed water storage.
Peter Everist, Earth Tech’s group general manager, explained that the project involved a two-year period of intensive planning and community consultation to obtain resource consents required under the New Zealand Resource Management Act.
“The EcoCare Scheme plays a vital role in maintaining and sustaining the long-term environmental and economic health of Mangawhai,” Everist said. “This is a very sensitive coastal environment and it was important for Earth Tech to work with the Council and community to ensure the success of the project.”
“One of the most exciting aspects is the use of reclaimed water to irrigate pastures," said Kaipara District Council Mayor Neil Tiller. "The quality of the reclaimed water is so high it meets standards that will enable dairy cows to graze."
Earth Tech Inc. is a global provider of engineering, construction and operations services to the international water/wastewater, environmental, transportation, and facilities markets.