In 2018, the Mei Te Vai Ki Te Vai Project Management Unit (PMU) confirmed that septic tank systems in Muri’s sensitive coastal area are contributing to the seaweed growths in Muri Lagoon. This is because nutrients from both household and commercial wastewater treated in septic tanks enter the lagoon. These nutrients get into the lagoon by direct groundwater flow to the vulnerable lagoon environment, and also via the streams that flow in the wet season when the groundwater table is high. This key finding has highlighted the need for a new reticulated wastewater system to service Muri’s coastal area.
Current system in Muri