Infrastructure upgrades, Water  |  7 Aug 2025

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A project to install new water supply pipes on Main North Road between Johns and Factory roads will get underway next week.

Christchurch City Council Head of Three Waters Gavin Hutchison says the water pipes are coming to the end of their life and need to be upgraded.

“The renewal is being carried out in three stages and is scheduled for completion in early 2026,” says Mr Hutchison.

“This will help us meet increasing demands on our water supply network generated by our growing city. People will see our contractors onsite from early next week getting this project underway.

“Work will start on the section of Main North Road between Factory Road and Richill Street and will progressively move south.

“We’ve planned works to get the renewal finished as fast as we can, and to keep traffic impacts to a minimum,” says Mr Hutchison.

The project will include excavation works, the installation of new pipes and road sealing.

During this time a lane reduction on the southbound side of Main North Road will be in place, as well as traffic detours, and a 30km/h speed limit to keep workers, motorists, cyclists and residents safe.

"Two northbound lanes will remain open on Main North Road, but they will be narrowed to accommodate construction work," says Mr Hutchison.

“Commuters should expect delays and are asked to follow the detour signage and keep an eye out for changes in traffic management.”

Road closures and night works on streets adjoining Main North Road are required for some of the work. These start with the closure of Factory Road from 7pm – 6am from this Monday 11 August until mid-September and continue with Richill Street and Belfast Road later in the year.

Complete road closures (day and night) are required for Third Street for all of October and Donegal Street for the first half of November. Resident access will be provided by the contractor.

Contractor Schick Civil Construction will keep residents and business updated as the work progresses.

For updates on the upgrade, visit our website.