Auckland Council is inviting local contractors to tender for essential flood maintenance works in Kumeū, with the aim of reducing flood risk and improving stormwater resilience across the community.
This decision follows strong calls from the community to involve locals who know the area best. By drawing on local knowledge and experience, Council hopes to deliver practical improvements that make a real difference on the ground.
Recent investigations by Auckland Council and technical experts confirmed that a large-scale stormwater upgrade is not a viable solution for Kumeū.
Kumeu shopping precinct under water during 2023 Anniversary weekend floods
Instead, the Council has prioritised budget from its Making Space for Water programme to focus on targeted stream and stormwater maintenance that will help reduce flooding during regular rain events.
Auckland Council’s Head of Sustainable Partnerships Tom Mansell says with no big infrastructure fix available, we’re focusing on practical, on-the-ground work that can make things better right now.
“This work will support the existing stormwater system to function more effectively and help reduce low-level flooding for residents in Kumeū and Huapai.”
The upcoming works will include clearing culverts, removing key stream blockages, and undertaking targeted maintenance in flood-prone areas. These tasks will complement the Council’s usual maintenance efforts, providing an extra layer of protection for the community.
To ensure local knowledge is put to good use, Council will open the tender process later this month specifically to contractors based in Kumeū, Huapai, Waimauku, Taupaki or Riverhead. To be eligible, contractors must have proven experience in flood resilience works, meet Council’s health and safety, financial, and insurance standards, and be willing to follow best-practice stream management policies.
Ward Councillor Greg Sayers says it is about council’s commitment to keeping the community safe; a practical and responsive opportunity for local contractors to carry out essential stormwater and Kumeū River maintenance works in the Kumeū area.
“The community asked for local involvement and we’re delivering on that. People who live and work in this area understand the land and waterways, and they’re best placed to do this work with care and efficiency.”
Rodney Local Board Chair Brent Bailey adds, “We’ve heard the community loud and clear. This is about doing the right thing; supporting local contractors, improving our flood resilience, and making sure Kumeū is better protected, both now and into the future.”
This initiative is part of Auckland Council’s broader commitment to prioritising investment where it matters most and putting community voices at the heart of decision-making.
Interested local contractors can contact procurement@aklc.govt.nz or call 09 301 0101 between 25 July and 15 August for more information.
