Upper Hutt City Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council are now reviewing the next phases of Pinehaven Stream flood protection after resuming management of the project following completion of phase 1 and 2 by Wellington Water Limited.

The Pinehaven Stream upgrade is a long-term initiative to improve stormwater resilience and reduce flood risk in the Pinehaven area.  

With construction works in Willow Park completed, the councils undertook a comprehensive review of the project and its objectives. This review was discussed at the Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River Valley Subcommittee meeting on 13 May.  

As part of the review process, officers assessed the remaining three stages of the project, which primarily involved work on private property, including access bridges and concrete channels.  

The review identified a substantial increase in overall project costs—from the original estimate of $10.9 million to a current projection of $58.6 million.  

With $22.5 million already spent, the cost to complete the remaining stages is now estimated at $36.1 million.  

Given the rising costs and complexity, the review recommended a pause in construction while alternative design and delivery options are explored over the next 12 months.  

Upper Hutt City Council’s Group Manager Operations, Tim Harty, says these options may include a more naturalised stream channel with fewer built structures, or an approach focused on maintenance and emergency response rather than major infrastructure works.  

“We’re focused on keeping costs within approved budgets, while making sure every dollar is spent effectively and delivers real value for the community,” he says.  

“To support this process, the Pinehaven Steering Group has been refreshed with representatives from Upper Hutt City Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, and an independent project manager.”  

The group will meet monthly and oversee the development and assessment of new options to identify a preferred way forward within the next year.  

“Council’s acknowledges that the delay may be frustrating for some residents, particularly those whose properties are still vulnerable to flooding,” says Harty.  

“However, taking time to ensure the most effective and financially responsible solution is chosen will help protect the community and provide better long-term value.”  

Project representatives have been out engaging directly, and in person, with properties with the most potential to be impacted by both the pause and change in scope of the works.  

To keep up to date with the project here (https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Projects-and-initiatives/Infrastructure/Pinehaven-Stream-Improvements) , check out the link below or in the meantime, if you have any questions we’ve set up a dedicated email address for community enquiries: pfm@uhcc.govt.nz. 

View committee report: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/files/assets/public/v/1/infrastructure-projects/pinehaven-culverts/pinehaven-floodplain-management-plan-fmp-partial-review.pdf

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

29/08/25