Christchurch's Te Kuru wetland has been internationally acknowledged for its innovative stormwater management.
The 110-hectare Halswell wetland stores more than a million cubic metres of water, which helps to reduce flooding and treat stormwater.
At the recent IPWEA Australasia Public Works Awards, the wetland received the award for Best Public Works Project over $5M and the award for the IPWEA Australasia Project of the Year.
The project also recently received two national awards from IPWEA New Zealand in May.
Christchurch City Council head of Three Waters Gavin Hutchison said in a statement it was great to see the important project getting the recognition it deserves.
“Being awarded this honour is a great reflection of the value delivered through this innovative approach towards stormwater management.”
Te Kuru opened in October 2024 with large wetlands, stormwater ponds, and filtration areas. It has 150,000 native trees, 650,000 native plants, more than 3km of restored streams, and 14km of walking and cycling paths.
Hutchinson said many initiatives in the long term plan had similar goals and the recognition for the wetland displayed the success of a multi-value style to stormwater and flood management.
“Wherever possible, projects address not only drainage issues, but also enhance ecological, cultural, recreation, landscape and heritage values.
“Te Kuru has allowed the council to showcase the implementation of this approach”
