Climate change will hammer New Zealand's drainage systems

New research into the effects of climate change says New Zealand's drainage systems need a major and expensive upgrade if they're to cope.

It's likely to cost ratepayers billions - but the report says if it's not carried out we're in for serious problems.

We're already seeing signs of what's to come. In March the Auckland suburb of New Lynn was underwater after a massive deluge flooded streets and storm water systems were overwhelmed.

And the research shows water networks like these will soon be under even more pressure. See more

Climate change Council Infrastructure Stormwater Stormwater Wastewater Water New Zealand