A wastewater overflow is when wastewater flows out from the pipes or manholes from where it is usually contained into a stream, river or the sea. This is not normal and preventing this from occurring is a high priority for the Council.

Wastewater overflow details are listed below. Information will be updated as soon as possible, and once discharge has ceased.

Pollution may take up to two days to completely clear after the discharge has ceased. 

2020 overflows

Discharge began Discharge ceased Overflow location Waterway affected Cause
2/2/2020 9.57am 2/2/2020 10.46am Lyttelton Wastewater Treatment Plant Lyttelton Harbour Pump Failure
1/1/2020 11am 1/1/2020 Simeon Quay Lyttelton Harbour Blocked sewer

Ongoing issues under investigation

Overflow location Waterway affected Possible cause
Lyttelton Wastewater Treatment Plant Outfall Lyttelton Harbour

Intermittent overloading of the reticulation during rainfall. Possible cause is cross-connection between stormwater and wastewater. A project is ongoing to reduce inflow and infiltration in the Lyttelton reticulation.

Note: All overflow incidents will be recorded in the table above.

Past overflows

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012