MDC 2024 Stormwater Infiltration Remediation
Masterton District Council, Kuripuni
Project Description
A focused, in-house approach gave Masterton District Council both technical insight and delivery certainty for this stormwater infiltration remediation project in the Kuripuni area. The contract involved investigation, reporting, and staged remediation, with works delivered across four separate street locations following Council approval. All site discovery and diagnostics were completed by Elite Drainage using internally operated CCTV equipment and a smoke testing unit purchased specifically for the project. Infiltration zones were identified quickly, allowing a remediation plan to be developed and agreed in collaboration with MDC engineers. Work was carried out under live conditions, including trunk mains with significant flows and confined excavation zones. The project scope included installation of seven 1050mm diameter manholes and two 2020mm diameter manholes, replacement of existing 300mm RCRRJ culverts with SN16 300mm UPVC pipe, and excavation exceeding 1.5 metres in depth. Live lane traffic management was implemented across multiple sites, with careful staging to minimise disruption. Over-pumping of groundwater was maintained continuously for over 24 hours where required. Manholes were constructed off-site in Elite’s yard and delivered fully sealed, improving watertightness and reducing time spent in high-risk excavation areas. Work areas included live power, water, and telecom services, which were managed without incident. All works were performed by Elite crews, with no subcontractors engaged. Communication with MDC and affected residents was maintained throughout, and the
project adapted in real time to suit the condition of existing infrastructure.
Performance
Elite completed the project on time and on budget with no disruption to existing stormwater or sewer networks. Quality was maintained through in-house smoke testing, static water testing of manholes, and the pre-build of chambers to prevent leakage. Environmental risks were addressed through 24-hour groundwater control and sediment containment measures around open excavations. Health and safety risks associated with deep trenches, live lanes and confined space entry were actively managed through documented job safety analyses and supervision. No incidents were recorded. The Council received full documentation of the works, including test reports and remedial plans. Feedback from MDC was positive, particularly regarding the fast response, high-quality finish, and ability to deliver on both investigation and remediation without delay.
