Ahipara working group recognised for wastewater mahi

Collaboration, innovative thinking and a willingness to challenge conventional approaches to wastewater treatment at Ahipara has earned the 2026 Ronald Hicks Memorial Award from Water New Zealand.

The Ahipara Takiwā working group consisted of Lisa McNab, Tui Qua Qua, Troy Brockbank, Hugh Ratsey and Dr Jacquie Reed. The group has worked alongside Far North District Council staff and technical specialists to find practical ways to improve the Ahipara Wastewater Treatment Plant and the quality of its discharge.

The mahi has involved regular meetings, technical discussions and working through different options to address the challenges facing the plant and surrounding environment.

The strength of this kaupapa has been people coming together, sharing their knowledge and staying focused on what is best for the taiao and the Ahipara community.

The council has provided administrative and technical support, while working with the group to investigate upgrades and longer-term wastewater discharge options.

One of the outcomes of this collaboration has been the installation and commissioning of a Supercritical UV treatment system at the plant. The system achieved compliant water quality results during its commissioning period. The Ahipara Wastewater Treatment Plant serves about 500 properties and treats an average of 200 cubic metres of wastewater each day.

The working group acknowledges Nova Lab for creating this innovative technology. This is the first SCUV in New Zealand being used for treating domestic wastewater.

The work has also provided an opportunity to share what has been learned with others working in the water sector. A paper documenting the project, Critical Thinking for Supercritical UV Success: Ahipara WWTP Case Study, has been recognised with the 2026 Ronald Hicks Memorial Award from Water New Zealand. The award was presented at the Water New Zealand Conference and Expo 2026 in Kirikiriroa Hamilton last week.

The award recognises significant work that helps solve or clarify sewage treatment or water pollution problems in Aotearoa New Zealand. For the people involved in the Ahipara project, the recognition reflects the value of working together towards a common goal.

It is also an example of how local knowledge, technical expertise and council support can come together to find practical solutions to complex infrastructure challenges. The focus for the working group remains on improving wastewater treatment and protecting the taiao for the benefit of the wider hapori.

From left:  Dr Jacquie Reed, Troy Brockbank, Tui Qua Qua, Hugh Ratsey, Tanya Proctor