Where no council sewerage pipeline exists, such as in many rural communities, wastewater is generally treated with septic tank systems.  However in some situations, like those described in this section, you may choose (or be required) to install an advanced wastewater treatment system, rather than use a traditional conventional septic tank system with a soakhole or soakage trenches.  This is to prevent degrading water quality of nearby water bodies.

Dealing with your wastewater - A guide to the On-Site Effluent Treatment Regional Plan 2006 (542KB, pdf)

What is an advanced wastewater treatment system?
These are systems that are similar to septic tank systems as they provide ‘on-site’ treatment.  However they treat wastewater to a much higher standard. They involve pre-treatment and secondary treatment involving aerobic biological processes. Some may also include tertiary treatment such as ultra-violet light.

What is happening in the Rotorua Lakes catchments?
Concerns about water quality in the Rotorua lakes means that there is a higher performance standard required for wastewater systems installed in the Rotorua Lakes’ catchments.  Environment Bay of Plenty, in conjunction with Environment Waikato and Rotorua District Council are carrying out trials in Rotorua of advanced wastewater treatment systems, in order to measure how various systems perform. 

If you are unsure if you are in one of the Rotorua Lakes’ catchments select 'Map 4' of the On-site Effluent Treatment Regional Plan.

Yes, I am in Rotorua Lakes' catchments 

No, I am elsewhere in the Bay of Plenty 

If you require further assistance after following these links contact Environment Bay of Plenty on 0800 ENV BOP (368 267) or email us at info@envbop.govt.nz.