Newsletter #4 | July 2026

Read on for the latest information on the pipeline installation between Queenstown and Frankton.

Progress update

Pipeline waiting to be laid along Frankton Track.

Crews have now installed 2045 metres of pipe!

Each section of high-density polyethylene pipe is delivered to the construction yard in 15-metre lengths before being transported to site using a Kubota 4x4 vehicle and pipe dollies.

On site, the pipe is welded into sections between 30 and 60 metres long before being lowered into the trench and backfilled to restore the ground to its previous condition.

The project is on track for a temporary opening during the Queenstown Marathon, and the majority of construction works are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Challenging conditions

As with any construction project, challenges are part of the process. Here are some of the challenges our team has faced and how they're adapting.

Freezing temperatures have created challenges for pipe welding and cold bending. Anticipating these winter conditions, the team has adjusted its work programme, carrying out welding later in the day when temperatures are warmer.

Another challenge has been high lake levels, which cause more groundwater to enter excavations in the Frankton Beach area. The team is managing this through dewatering, carefully pumping water from the excavation and filtering it before it is discharged back into the lake.

Crews have also encountered variable ground conditions and unrecorded historical services at Frankton Beach. The design and construction teams have worked closely together to address these challenges as they arise, helping keep the project on track and aligned with the original programme.

Stage 3 work - July to September

We’ve started work on Stage 3.

Due to the narrow road corridor and limited footpath space on Frankton Road between Middleton Road and Perkins Road, scaffolding platforms may be installed to provide a safe route for pedestrians and cyclists while the pipeline is being constructed.

That's all from us for now.

Stay warm.

From the QLDC project team.

More information

All information on the Frankton Track Wastewater Pipeline Upgrade is available online, at the link below.