Midtown wastewater diversion

The latest

In 2024 we set up the compounds (as show on the map) where the shafts will be constructed and from where the tunnel boring machine (TBM) will be launched. The machine bores from Mayoral Drive down to Victoria Street East to connect into the Ōrākei sewer. All plant and machinery will be housed in three sided compounds with access for spoil removal by trucks away from the city centre.

With our services diversions completed now, we are ready to begin piling and shaft excavation at our three sites. This work will continue until May.

Project overview

Main works

Queen Street wastewater diversion, October 2024 - December 2025

• Construction of three deep shafts on Queen Street near Mayoral Drive and at the intersections of Queen Street/Wellesley Street and Queen Street/Victoria Street

Between Queen Street and Lorne Street and on Victoria Street between Queen Street and High Street

• A 1.35m diameter tunnel boring machine will be used to construct the new 600m long wastewater pipe under Queen Street connecting into the shaft locations (as shown on the map below).

• Three short open-cut trenches at the Queen Street/Wellesley Street intersection to connect existing wastewater networks to our new tunnel.

Mayoral Drive wastewater diversion, November 2025 - December 2026

Like Queen Street, a tunnel boring machine will be used to drill beneath Mayoral Drive from Vincent Street under Greys Avenue, and into the carpark near Myers Park.

Closer to the start date we will provide more details regarding the construction methodology and traffic management that will be adopted to keep the community safe.

Works area

The map shows the areas where the project team will be working.

How with this affect you?

Working hours

• Working hours are typically between 7.30am and 6:00pm, Monday to Saturday, including some Statutory Holidays. Occasionally, nightworks will be necessary and are typically between 8pm and 5am.

Traffic management

• Traffic management will be in place 24/7 during construction for the safety of the public, traffic, and our workers. Traffic controllers will be on site to assist. Queen Street/Mayoral Drive/Wellesley Street East and Victoria Street East will remain open to two-way traffic.

Noise and vibration

• Construction works will generate some noise and vibration. We are conscious of the effects noise can have on near neighbours and will work with you to keep noise to a minimum. Levels will be in accordance with Auckland Council and consent requirements.

Footpaths

• Footpaths will remain open.

We acknowledge this type of work can be disruptive and we appreciate your patience and cooperation during this time.