Around 40 people gathered at the Waitomo Cultural and Arts Centre on Tuesday 3 March to celebrate the official opening, of the Te Kuiti Wastewater Treatment Plant, hosted by Waitomo District Council.

A presentation was made to chart the significant journey of the project from start to finish over the past 7 years. The investment made in the new plant ensures optimal treatment processes, so as to protect the quality of the Mangaokewa River now and into the future.

Ministry of Health principal public health engineer John Harding spoke about the complex project risks that WDC overcame during the design and funding phases of the project.

Waikato Regional Councillor Alan Livingstone highlighted the efforts of WDC in finding a solution that would support local businesses such as the meat works in Te Kuiti, while addressing the need for environmentally appropriate treatment of trade waste that is produced by local industry.

The successful completion of this essential infrastructure project will serve to protect the public health of the Te Kuiti community for many years to come and a focus has been maintained on obtaining the best value for money.

The attendees, who were interested in viewing the Plant, were then transported to the site location and given a guided tour.

The Treatment Plant was officially opened by Tiwha Bell, Chairman of the Maniapoto Maori Trust Board and Mayor Brian Hanna. Mr Bell has played an important role in this project by working closely with WDC during the design phase of the upgrade and ensuring that local Iwi are engaged in the process.

Chief Executive Chris Ryan, the Management Team, staff and Councillors would like to thank all those key stakeholders involved in making this project a great success for the benefit of the community.

• If you would like to view more photos of the opening, click on related links on this page.