Central Plains Water Enhancement Scheme

It was identified that changes in Canterbury’s rural infrastructure, particularly extensive irrigation development, had positive effects on New Zealand’s economy. In response, the two-stage Central Plains Water Enhancement Scheme was developed to improve environmental and economic outcomes across a 60,000-hectare command area.

This design and build irrigation project converts the water source from groundwater pumping to a gravity fed pipeline distribution network using more environmentally sustainable alpine water. Stage 1 included a due diligence review, distribution network design for 25,000 hectares, and critical review of Stage 2’s economic feasibility. We proposed a radically alternative Stage 2 scheme that reduced the environmental footprint and project risk and significantly reduced capital expenditure at a fixed cost. As lead designer, we undertook detailed design, construction management, surveillance, and quality assurance. 

Our team managed the key risks and developed a feasible solution to irrigate a further 20,000 hectares of farmland. This project helps enhance ecological and recreational values while providing opportunity for agricultural and horticultural diversity via water security.