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Thousands of properties across the Hibiscus Coast, East Coast Bays and Rodney have yet to meet Auckland Council’s septic system requirements, as it prepares to take enforcement action in areas considered most at risk.
The properties are among 11,240 across Auckland whose owners have not engaged with council’s Safe Septic programme, despite receiving notification and reminder letters.
The condition of those systems is unknown, but based on faults found through inspections elsewhere, council estimates about 950 could require repairs.
Council’s proactive compliance projects team leader Jesse Hindt says there are currently 41,349 onsite wastewater systems operating as permitted activities across the Auckland region.
“Thanks to the efforts of property owners and service providers, compliance has now reached 75 per cent, with more than 30,000 septic tank systems across Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf Islands having been inspected and verified by qualified service providers. But there is more work to do, with approximately 6500 properties across the Hibiscus & Bays and Rodney local board areas yet to comply, Hindt says.
“Through the council’s Safe Septic compliance programme we will now begin issuing abatement notices starting with those areas considered most at risk, compelling noncompliant owners to meet their obligations under the Auckland Unitary Plan.”
Council’s Regulatory and Safety Committee chair Councillor Josephine Bartley says strong compliance is particularly important in communities without reticulated wastewater services.
“This is about looking after our environment and our communities,” Bartley says.
“Failing wastewater systems can have a cumulative and serious impact on water quality, especially in areas without reticulated sewerage. Strong compliance is essential if we want cleaner waterways and safer beaches for everyone.”
Bartley says enforcement is not about punishment, but ensuring all property owners meet the same responsibilities.
“Most Aucklanders already are, and it’s time the remainder caught up.”
The Safe Septic programme is funded through the Water Quality Targeted Rate.
