Wellington sewage leak sends millions of litres into the sea

Around 70 million litres of untreated wastewater leaked into waters off Wellington after a failure at the Moa Point treatment plant, and local authorities have advised people to avoid coastal waterways while repairs continue.

A major leak at Wellington's Moa Point wastewater treatment plant has released a large volume of untreated wastewater into nearby coastal waters. Heavy rain contributed to flooding at the plant and a failure in the outfall system. Local authorities have reported ongoing work to restore the longer outfall and screening systems. Repairs are expected to take months and exact timelines are not yet available. Known details: - Officials reported about 70 million litres of raw wastewater entered waters off Wellington after the plant's lower floors flooded. - The failure involved the plant's outfall system, which led to discharge through a shorter pipe closer to shore. - Authorities say partial restoration of the long outfall and screening systems is underway, but full repairs will take months. - Local and national agencies have said they are assessing environmental and public health impacts and have issued advisories for coastal areas. Summary: The incident has been reported as a significant release of untreated wastewater with potential environmental and public health implications. Authorities have partly restored systems and are continuing assessment and repair work, but a firm timetable for full restoration is undetermined at this time.