Our waterways are our life force, the arteries and organs of a living Aotearoa. In protecting it, we are also protecting ourselves.

Over the past few years, we have continued to experience events that are leaving significant impacts on New Zealand. 2023 was no different, and as we all sighed a sigh of relief, thinking that the worst of the pandemic was over, a new national crisis came pouring down from the heavens in almost biblical proportions. Words like “unprecedented” and “catastrophic” once again became part of our daily lingo as we tried to digest the news of flooding, landslides and livelihoods lost.

There is no doubt this year presented us with a spectrum of weather and water-related challenges that raised many valid questions and acknowledged poor decisions from the past. It’s how we address these now, knowing that extreme weather events are no longer a problem of the future, that will showcase our commitment to our collective responsibility to our environment, our water, and the way in which we interact with it.

Investments and advancements in water infrastructure (both old and new), learnings of best management practices and new technologies, now more than ever, it is a critical priority considering the importance of sustaining our communities, livelihoods, and ecosystems.

We are happy to see indicators of the above in the review of national engineering design standards and water policies, and value the opportunity to work with regulatory authorities, most recently submitting our feedback on the importance of Urban Stormwater management under NPS-FW 2020’s ‘integrated approach’ requirements. Have a look at our submittal Here. We’re also looking forward to see how the new Government (with the benefit of the most recent learnings!) plan to address the above challenges.

At Stormwater360, leveraging 27 years of local expertise in stormwater management, our global expansion enables us to both learn and share best practices. We’re particularly proud of the EnviroBasin™, now an ETV (Canadian) verified stormwater treatment solution, showcasing Kiwi innovation alongside established global brands. 

The EnviroPod™ LittaTrap™ continues to gain international traction where strong regulatory frameworks place clear responsibilities on the private sector to play (and fund!!) their part in protecting sensitive receiving environments.

Locally, we’re very excited about the Filterra® Bioscape that’s recently been installed in the Omokoroa Peninsula in Western Bay of Plenty. If you haven’t yet watched the video, have a look Here. Uptake of Filterra® Bioscape is now resulting in early installs in 2024 in Wellington, Auckland, Hastings, Bay of Plenty and the Waikato as the sector continues to learn the advantages of the technology.

Our Maintenance Contractor Training programme has rolled out successfully and is receiving increased interest from asset owners/Councils, to understand better the most efficient and economic process of looking after their assets. If you want more info on this programme, please look Here. 

As we approach the new year, the lessons of 2023 compel us to prioritize more stringent water infrastructure management. There's no room for compromise or shortcuts; we must uphold the highest standards for our water, ourselves, and future generations. Let's each commit to enhancing our contributions to protect our water and environment. 

We extend our thanks to all contributors throughout 2023 - our leadership, partners, suppliers, Consultants, Councils, Iwi, Civil, Drainage and maintenance Contractors and everyone else who continues to work tirelessly towards doing the right thing for the environment.

May you have a Blessed Festive break.

Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui.

Ngā Mihi 

Wynand Du Toit

National Sales Manager