Upgrade set for loo with a view

The Department of Conservation-run toilet block at Hans Bay, Lake Kaniere. PHOTO: JANNA SHERMAN

The Department of Conservation said in peak times the Hans Bay campground toilets could be used by at least 300 campers and lake visitors daily.

The existing septic system, which was consented 34 years go, was subject to ‘‘blockages’’ and ‘‘overflows’’ due to heavy usage.

To prevent overflows and to ensure adverse effects from the discharge to the septic tank were avoided, Doc was now seeking to upgrade the septic tank and land application area.

The toilet block discharges to a septic tank that was pumped to land trenches to the east.

A new land application bed is proposed further east in the scenic reserve.

The system design includes a sample port for monitoring.

Doc said it was ‘‘crucial’’ to effectively manage wastewater at the site to minimise the impact of ‘‘human activities’’ in the area and safeguard public health.

At capacity, the campsite can host up to 160 campers in December and January and receive up to 150 day visitors.

‘‘Upgrading the wastewater system for the reserve will ensure it can operate effectively during peak demand ... and major events such as waka ama, the Lake Kaniere Triathlon and the powerboat and wake boarding series.

‘‘Because of the seasonal high peak loads and the proximity to Lake Kaniere, which is the source for Hokitika’s water supply, a high level of treatment is recommended,’’ Doc said.

The proposal is for wastewater to go through a primary septic tank discharging via an outlet filter to a pump station prior to being discharged to land where secondary treatment will occur.

Meanwhile, septic tanks in the wider Lake Kaniere area are on the radar of the Westland District Council.

Issues around seepage and run-off were raised last year by retired nurse Paul Breeze, who told councillors housing developments and dairying were ‘‘destroying’’ the lake.

Effluent from septic tanks was accumulating, ‘‘and eventually we’re going to see gastroenteritis come out of Lake Kaniere — it’s just a matter of time’’.

Mr Breeze also raised concerns about the outfall to the lake from an expanding subdivision in Stuart St, overlooking Hans Bay.

Earlier this year the council said while it was the responsibility of landowners to maintain septic systems, it had been discussed whether the West Coast Regional Council should enforce an expiry date for old systems.

A round-table meeting is planned with residents, Doc and the regional council on the issue.

Before then, staff were to investigate with the regional council on what other data it collates relating to testing, Resource Management Act changes and developments at Lake Kaniere.

- By Janna Sherman