A fat blockage in a sewer on private property caused contamination of the Awaruku Stream recently, and more significant contamination was prevented only by the quick actions of a local Wai Care group.

During regular testing the Wai Care group found unusually high levels of phosphate and nitrate in Awaruku Stream and the council was notified.

Subsequent tests revealed high levels of ammonia indicating contamination that if severe enough, could affect Long Bay beach.

The cause of the contamination was traced back to a manhole that was intermittently discharging wastewater because a public sewer was blocked with solidified fat from a nearby house.

The council’s pollution prevention officer, Natalie Managh, says the blockage had been causing wastewater discharges from the manhole for some time and although it was clearly visible, no one had noticed it or contacted council.

“There are two lessons here,” she says, “firstly, never pour fat down the drain – let it solidify and dispose of it in the rubbish instead. Secondly, be aware of what is around you and if you see or smell anything that could be a wastewater leak contact us immediately,” says Natalie.

To report a wastewater incident, or for further information on joining call Actionline on 486 8600.

Above: Wai Care’s Ross Garrett and Pauline Lawes test the water at Awaruku Stream.