LONG BEACH, CA, Jan. 15, 2008 -- Earth Tech Inc., a global provider of consulting, engineering, construction and operations services, has started construction of the USD$39.9 million (NZ$53 million) Mangawhai EcoCare Wastewater Scheme in New Zealand.
Construction began yesterday with a Karakia, a customary New Zealand blessing, and an official ground-breaking celebration to recognize the significance of this major community infrastructure project.
Earth Tech designed the complete wastewater scheme for Mangawhai Township, a popular beach resort located in a sensitive estuary and marine environment 1.5 hours north of Auckland. The company also will be responsible for the construction, commissioning and operation of the scheme on behalf of the Kaipara District Council for up to 10 years. The scope of operations includes collection, pumping, treatment and disposal of all wastewater and biosolids. The EcoCare Scheme is scheduled for completion in July 2009.
The major elements of the Mangawhai EcoCare Wastewater Scheme include:
• 21 kilometres of sewers
• 15 pumping stations
• 6 kilometres of rising main
• a small footprint wastewater treatment plant
• an 11 kilometres reclaimed water transfer pipeline
• a reclaimed water and irrigation system
Peter Everist, Earth Tech's Group General Manager, explained that the project involved a two-year period of intensive planning and community consultation to obtain resource consents required under the New Zealand Resource Management Act.
"The EcoCare Scheme plays a vital role in maintaining and sustaining the long-term environmental and economic health of Mangawhai," Everist said. "This is a very sensitive coastal environment and it was important for Earth Tech to work with the Council and community to ensure the success of the project."
Kaipara District Council Mayor Neil Tiller said finalizing the deal is the culmination of many years of planning and consultation with the community to align objectives and outcomes for the project including maintaining the affordability for the community.
"This is an exciting example of a Council, community and the private sector working together to solve public health and environmental issues in a small community," Tiller explained. "One of the most exciting aspects is the use of reclaimed water to irrigate pastures. The quality of the reclaimed water is so high it meets standards that will enable dairy cows to graze. The EcoCare Scheme will also protect our estuary and harbor for future generations so that residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy our beautiful environment and recreational activities."
Beca Carter Hollings and Ferner Ltd. are the technical advisers to Kaipara District Council for the project. Commercial and transaction advice has been provided by specialist advisers EPS Consultants (International) Pty Ltd.
Earth Tech Inc. is a global provider of a full suite of engineering, construction and operations services to the international water/wastewater, environmental, transportation, and facilities markets
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