Pipeline is set for next move

Downer Construction's Bay manager David Burns and the pipeline that needed the combined efforts to start it snaking into Tauranga Harbour yesterday. Photo / George Novak

The challenging task of towing a 700 metre pipeline under Maungatapu Bridge was expected to take place today to minimise the risk of things going wrong.

Timing of the tides meant that the trickiest part of the job to float the pipeline from Rangataua Bay to Memorial Park was due to happen this morning, starting about 8am.

Yesterday's work centred on moving the pipeline from its perch alongside SH29 and pulling it into the harbour on the southern side of the approaches to the bridge. The work wasn't without its problems, with the friction created by the massive deadweight of the pipeline causing a few problems to winch motors and wire cables.

However the pipeline was entering the water like a giant snake by lunchtime yesterday. It was anchored overnight along the side of Rangataua Bay, ready for today's tow involving two boats in front, one controlling the rear and two alongside to make sure it stayed in a straight line.

It was part of the Tauranga City Council's $8 million project to lay a sewer main through the Te Papa Peninsula, linking the Memorial Park pumping station with the Judea pumping station.

Downers Bay of Plenty construction manager David Burns said timing was critical to float the pipeline from Matapihi to Memorial Park.

The tow had to take place on the incoming tide to maximise control of the pipeline in the water and ensure it did not hit the bridge.