Lake Rotokākahi sewerage pipeline protest

The story so far

Seven people were arrested for trespass after refusing to leave a worksite near Lake Rotokākahi, where about 80 police officers attended a protest against the Tarawera Sewerage Scheme.^{24 Feb 2025} Local hapū oppose the pipeline, saying the project runs through a sacred site.^{24 Feb 2025} Protesters said they would not leave despite the arrests, and the group opposes the $29 million scheme, while the council says the pipeline is essential to reduce pollution in Lake Tarawera.^{25 Feb 2025} An application by a protesting group over the pipeline path led an Environment Court judge to order a halt to the works, which include a final 1.3km section being built by Rotorua Lakes Council.^{28 Feb 2025}

Latest

An Environment Court judge has ordered a pause to the Tarawera Sewerage Scheme works ahead of an urgent hearing.^{28 Feb 2025}

What's next

The works are paused until an urgent Environment Court hearing takes place.^{28 Feb 2025}

Key moments

1. 24 Feb 2025Seven people arrested for trespass at Lake Rotokākahi worksite; about 80 police attended.
2. 25 Feb 2025Protesters vow to stay at Lake Rotokākahi despite arrests and police intervention.
3. 28 Feb 2025Environment Court judge orders halt to Tarawera Sewerage Scheme works pending urgent hearing.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.