Parnell Sinkhole

A massive sinkhole appeared in the commercial area of Parnell due to a compromised brick sewer main. Eight million litres of raw sewerage were being released into the Waitematā Habour each day and an immediate response was required to mitigate an environmental disaster. March Cato began work to divert the sewer as a temporary measure until the permanent solution is installed.

This difficult site had many challenges including ensuring continuation of business in the immediate and surrounding areas, consideration to residential property, traffic congestion and the management of site works and deliveries to keep this to a minimum.

Hynds Water partnered with March Cato ensuring the coordination of product supply and delivery to site, met the tight constraints of the project.

The timeframe was 3 weeks from start to finish and Hynds used their pool of internal and external resources to make it happen.

Approximately 600 meters of 630 OD PE pipe was manufactured along with 50+ bespoke fabricated PE fittings. A 630mm diameter mechanical saddle, 300mm Sluice Valves, 150mm Air valves, plus 1000+ nuts bolts and washers were required.  Items had to be flown in from around the world and manufacturers worked nights and weekends to get the pipework and fittings completed.

Special thanks to Waters & Farr, Hygrade Water, and our other various suppliers for going above and beyond. Also, to the Northwater team who were sub-contracting to March Cato, for their collaboration on this project.