A hidden hero at Manu-kau Noa Iho Hayman Park

But you can’t see it - because it’s tucked away underground and marks a significant step forward in protecting Te Puhinui Awa that flows to the Manukau Harbour.

A different kind of filter

Unlike Chat GPT, which processes information, this GPT filters out rubbish, plastics, and sediment before  reaching Te Puhinui awa. This device services a large portion of the Manukau city centre including the bus rail interchange and several other buildings. Water run off was once untreated, now this GPT acts as a giant underground filter. It intercepts up to 80% of pollutants, it will be further filtered by a large wetland ‘the kidneys of Papaatuuanuku’ making Manu-kau Noa Iho Hayman Park a site to showcase sustainable, innovative infrastructure. The installation is part of the wider Transform Manukau project, made possible through collaboration between the Auckland Urban Development Office (AUDO) and Healthy Waters Flood Resilience.

 
Why it matters

Every rainfall brings stormwater, and with it, pollutants from our streets. The GPT’s job is to stop these at the source, directly improving water quality.  Previously, the runoff entered the waterways largely untreated. The GPT now intercepts the stormwater, treating it before it reaches the stream, resulting in a measurable improvement in water quality. 

Cleaner water means safer play for our communities, and healthier habitats for taonga species like tuna (eels), kooura (freshwater crayfish) as well as native birds. Many homes and workplaces back onto the stream, so the benefits of cleaner water will be felt by people and wildlife alike, strengthening our connection with te taiao. The wide-ranging benefits in the area will also include improving the experience of swimming and fishing in the Manukau Harbour through the improved water quality.

Community connection

Te Puhinui Awa runs through the heart of Manukau, connecting neighbourhoods, parks and businesses. Soon, Manu-kau Noa Iho Hayman Park visitors will be able to walk right across this hidden hero, while its vital work happens beneath their feet. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most important changes are the ones we don’t see, quietly making a difference every day.

“By removing the pollutants first, the GPT enables the wetland to do its work by cleansing the water naturally. This will support regenerating Te Puhinui and taonga species that depend on it”.

Jennice Stringer, Senior Project Manager, the Auckland Urban Development Office.

Collaboration for a healthier future

The GPT marks the beginning of significant improvements at Manu-kau Noa Iho Hayman Park. Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters and the AUDO are working together to transform the old stormwater pond into a healthy wetland. The pond had issues with sediment build-up and very poor water quality. The improvements, including the GPT, are a great example of how thoughtful design and engineering, combined with community care, can improve the wellbeing of our waterways and our neighbourhood.

Looking ahead

Manu-kau Noa Iho Hayman Park supports the broader Te Whakaoranga o Te Puhinui regeneration strategy and is just one step in regenerating and celebrating our local waterways. 

Stay up to date

Follow TeWhakaorangaoTePuhinui on Facebook, and Our_Puhinui and AUDOakl on Instagram for the latest news, as we work together to protect and enhance Puhinui awa for generations to come.