The upgraded Henderson Street stormwater pump station in Whakatāne is now complete and delivering stronger protection during heavy rain, following its successful operation during last week’s storm event.
The completion of the Henderson Street stormwater improvements marks an important milestone for flood protection in the area, with the new Henderson Street pump station already demonstrating its ability to perform under challenging weather conditions.
The original Hinemoa Street pump station was no longer large enough to manage the substantial catchment it serves. To future‑proof the stormwater network, the new Henderson Street pump station has been built at a larger site behind James Street School and upgraded to meet modern stormwater standards.
The new Henderson Street station provides significantly greater capacity and resilience, offering strong protection even during rainfall events equivalent to a one in fifty‑year storm.
As part of the final stages of the project, the Henderson Street pump station was operated during a real wet weather event and the operational levels were programmed. Last week’s storm provided the opportunity to confirm the system was working as designed and to complete final adjustments.
Project Manager Aimee Thumath says seeing the new station operate during a significant rain event was a positive moment for the project team.
“This project is about making sure our stormwater system can do its job when it really matters. Seeing the new Henderson Street pump station perform so well during a significant rain event gives us confidence that it will provide reliable protection for years to come.”
The upgraded Henderson Street pump station provides greater protection for homes during heavy rain and supports better outcomes for local waterways by managing stormwater more effectively.
The project also included major stormwater pipe upgrades along Armstrong Avenue and Henderson Street. These improvements help move stormwater more efficiently through the network before it is safely discharged to the Whakatāne River. The works involved excavation through the stopbank and the installation of three large pipes to convey stormwater from the pump station to the river.
Construction was led by Waiotahi Contractors Ltd and funded through the Council’s annual plan, with a total project budget of $6.8 million.
With the new Henderson Street pump station now fully operational, the old Hinemoa Street pump station will be decommissioned during the July school holidays. At the same time, work will begin to create an additional stormwater channel in the reserve at the corner of Hinemoa Street and Victoria Avenue.
This new channel will help offset the new pump station while also enhancing ecological habitat within the reserve.
Whakatāne District Council thanks nearby residents and the James Street School community for their patience and support while this important project was completed.
ENDS
You can read more about the project here.