Queenstown Lakes District Council announced the ban on new connections today to reduce pressure on the Hāwea Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The plant has been operating under an abatement notice after high nitrogen levels were found in its treated wastewater discharged to an oxidation pond on site.
The QLDC said network upgrades to bring the plant up to scratch should be finished by early 2027.
"All subdivision applications yet to be lodged and subdivision applications currently being processed" that did not meet listed exemptions would be restricted from connecting to the wastewater system, the QLDC said.
The exemptions included:
Building on a vacant section that already has an existing wastewater connection.
Developments with a valid resource or building consent granted before September 30, 2025 where the consent has not lapsed and conditions are complied with.
Adding a second residential unit or a residential flat as a permitted activity
"Council has carefully considered the capacity issues in connection with the currently consented and permitted activities and considers this an appropriate response to the issue at this time," QLDC said in a statement.
- Allied Media
