31 JULY 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® www.starironworks.com 257 Caroline Street Punxsutawney, PA 15767 800-927-0560 • 814-427-2555 Fax: 814-427-5164 Serving the Construction Industry 2025 Booth 1908 HDD Brings Water to Residents in New Zealand Adapted from Information by the Gore District Council The Gore District Council in New Zealand recently approved the use of horizontal directional drilling (HDD) technology to install water pipes under the Mataura River, marking a significant step toward securing the community’s water supply. Currently, 35% of the Gore drinking water supply will not meet DWQAR (drinking water quality assurance rules) standards. With the East Gore treatment plant complete, the task of moving water across the Mataura River brought the community together. Residents were asked if they wanted a bridge with pedestrian and cycling options, or if they just wanted Councillors to focus on getting the pipelines across the river using HDD. In the end, more than 63% of people preferred the option of using HDD to place the pipes under the river instead of building a new bridge. HDD technology involves using a steerable drill head to create a precise, underground pathway for installing pipelines without disrupting the surface. This method is particularly valuable for crossing obstacles like rivers and roads, offering reduced environmental impact and greater precision in challenging terrains. The project will involve installing two pipelines under the river, connecting the existing Jacobstown wells and Hilbre Avenue reservoir to the East Gore water treatment plant. Over the past year, detailed geotechnical investigations and design work were conducted, including assessing the risks and costs associated with HDD. As part of this process, Councillors visited a current project with the contractor to gain a better understanding of the work involved. They were able to get a firsthand view of the equipment required, along with some of the associated challenges and risks. Mayor Ben Bell was pleased to see the end of a five-year process to bring water to Gore residents. “It is exciting to finally get the green light from the council and an outcome the community asked for,” Mayor Bell said. “For many, this feels like a long time coming, and after previous unsuccessful and costly approaches, the team has invested a substantial amount of time and planning to ensure the drilling will deliver tangible results.” Work on the project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. HDD WTR
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