Challenges and Opportunities Relating to Integrating Stormwater Operations for the Auckland Region

The Auckland Council is responsible for operating and maintaining the largest public stormwater system in New Zealand, w ith a total asset value of $2.5billlion, w hich consists of 8,300 km of streams and open channels, 6,500 km of piped network, 87,200 manholes, 2,500 ground soak holes, 170 treatment devices, 370 dry and wet ponds, 30 wetlands, and thousands of private on-site stormwater management devices, which are not owned by the Council, but form an integral part of the entire stormwater system for the region. Proper operation and maintenance of these systems is critically important for minimising flooding risk and preventing environmental deterioration.

The merging of all local authorities creates a unique opportunity to integrate its stormwater operations for the Auckland region. However, we also face unprecedented challenges in doing so. This paper outlines the major challenges facing us in the integration process.