Major water pipe upgrade for Te Kamo, Tikipunga and surrounds

Published on 29 April 2026

Work along Station Road to upgrade underground water infrastructure is progressing well with approximately 50% of the new, larger 355mm diameter polyethylene piping having been laid at the end of April 2026. 

The project involves replacing a 50‑year‑old, 250mm concrete‑lined steel trunk main along the north side of Station Road, as well as a smaller section of water pipe on the south side of the road. 

The trunk main is the primary water supply for the eastern side of Te Kamo, as well as Tikipunga, including several water reservoirs that serve surrounding areas. 

The upgrade is expected to improve water pressure for many households and businesses, and increase capacity and reliability for our growing population. 

Using horizontal directional drilling (where piping is drilled underground, avoiding the need for trenching), pipes between the State Highway 1 overpass and Gillingham Road have been laid, with residents saying they have enjoyed seeing how it all works. 

A Station Road resident, Keith, told a Council representative that the project had been “really interesting to watch” and described the team as doing a “bloody great job”. 

“It’s great to see the Council progressing Kamo and Tikipunga, and the North Drill crowd have been so damn good. 

“It’s been great to watch what they’re doing – they’re motoring along quite nicely and keeping things tidy, even with all the rain we’ve had. 

“I give credit where credit’s due and this is brilliant work,” said Keith. 

Construction will continue from the overpass to the Kamo Road intersection and is expected to wrap up in July 2026. 

A planned water shutdown will be required toward the end of the project when the new pipes are connected to the network. Affected customers will be notified in advance. 

Council and contractor North Drill thank the community for their patience and enthusiasm to date.