Whakatāne District Council Elected Members today approved the next steps for the Matatā Wastewater Project, endorsing a refined approach to delivering wastewater services for the community.
The decision confirms a moderate-scale, modular treatment system designed to service up to 700 homes, alongside moving forward with a resource consenting strategy.
The project aims to address long-standing public health and environmental risks from failing on-site wastewater systems, which has been a key Council priority for many years.
“This is a refinement, rather than a major change in direction,” says Nicholas Woodley, Manager Policy Planning and Consents.
“We’ve re-tested assumptions, responded to community feedback, and developed a solution that is fit-for-purpose for Matatā today and into the future.”
Over the years, three approaches have been assessed:
- A maintenance zone approach, relying on a regulatory response from Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council. This was considered high risk and not viable long term.
- A large-scale treatment plant, future-proofed for 1,500+ homes but costly to build and operate.
- A moderate-scale modular treatment system, which is scalable, cost-effective, and aligned with the current and future needs of Matatā.
The updated approach also continues to make use of the Council-owned Tahi Hill farm, which remains a key asset for the project. The land would still be used to support irrigation of treated effluent and may also enable land reprofiling to optimise system design.
Mr Woodley says the approval provides a clear direction to move the project forward.
“This is about building a solution that’s practical, affordable, and environmentally sound. The decision today gives us the green light to begin preparing for consenting and to keep the community closely informed as we progress.”
To view the Council meeting check out our YouTube channel.