1. Burst Mains & Supply Interruptions

• On 11 June 2025, a major water main burst on Lake Rd near Northcote, disrupting supply to Northcote, Northcote Point, Hillcrest, and parts of Takapuna. Emergency crews restored service that evening
• These incidents are part of broader network aging and capacity stresses across the North Shore.

2. Capacity Constraints in Growth Areas

• Watercare capacity assessments show that many North Shore suburbs—including parts of East Coast Bays and surrounding areas—are already at or near capacity for water supply connections.
• Developers in Hibiscus Coast have begun avoiding or delaying projects due to lack of new water/wastewater capacity.

3. Sewer Overload and Upgrades

• Historically, wet weather overflows into Mairangi Bay occurred up to 10 times per year.
• A new $22.5 million wastewater pump station (operational since April 2024) now handles up to 625 L/s, reducing overflows and modernizing infrastructure.
• However, sewer branch and local stormwater pipes in Torbay and elsewhere remain under capacity, with upgrades planned for as late as 2031.

4. Climate Risks & Aging Network