A new underground drainage system at the corner of Anderson and Aubrey Roads in Wānaka is being installed as the first step in a project to tackle flooding that occurs after heavy rain.

Surface flooding on Aubrey Road has been an ongoing problem for years.

Read more: Solution sought for Aubrey Road flooding

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) property and infrastructure general manager Tony Avery said the council and the developer of a new residential site on the south-east corner of the intersection have agreed to work together on the project.

“I know this will be a welcome relief for local residents,” Tony said. 

“Development of this site has provided an excellent opportunity to solve the frustrating issue where poor drainage allows stormwater to collect on the opposite side of the road.”

Work to install several new soakage devices within the boundary of Multiplied Investment Partners’ development had begun.

Tony said the new soakage system will have an “immediate positive impact” when it is completed in a few months’ time.

The system makes up the first part of a “complete solution”, but the budget for that project is not allocated until the 2027-2028 financial year. 

The additional work will include the installation of an overflow pipe from the intersection down to Kelly’s Flat, along with additional work at the reserve to slow the flow of stormwater, Tony said.

“I’d like to thank Multiplied Investment Partners for its co-operation on this project, and especially local residents who have been incredibly patient while we’ve worked towards a solution.”

PHOTO: Wānaka App