Draft Engineering Standards

These Engineering Standards state the technical standards necessary to comply with the objectives and policies related to development within the district. The standards have been compiled to ensure that a high degree of uniformity, consistency and effective operational management is maintained in all development projects, not only during the construction but for the long term. The criteria contained within the Standards have been compiled from proven and established standards and guidelines which are used extensively throughout New Zealand.

They provide detailed guidelines and specifications for various infrastructure elements such as road design parameters (i.e. widths), footpaths, vehicle crossings, drainage and potable water systems.

These standards were developed to support the Review of the District Plan. While they largely align with national standards, most councils have their own standards in place to ensure that development projects align with district and regional specific considerations and regulatory environments. Tararua District have been using other district’s standards as reference previously, but with the increase in development occurring across the district it has become necessary to develop our own set of standards. Other benefits include:

• Consistency and Uniformity: By adopting these standards, this will ensure that all infrastructure projects within the district follow a consistent and uniform approach. This reduces variability and ensures that all projects meet the same high standards of quality and safety.
• Safety and Durability: The standards are designed to ensure that infrastructure is built to last and can withstand the demands of everyday use. This includes specifications for materials, construction methods, and design criteria that enhance the safety and durability of roads, footpaths, drainage systems, and water supply networks.
• Cost-Effectiveness: By providing clear and detailed guidelines, the standards help reduce the likelihood of errors and rework, which can be costly. They also promote the use of efficient construction practices and materials, leading to cost savings over the life of the infrastructure.
• Environmental Sustainability: The standards include provisions for sustainable practices, such as effective stormwater management and the use of environmentally friendly materials. This helps protect natural resources and supports the district's environmental goals.
• Compliance and Regulation: Adhering to these standards ensures compliance with national and regional regulations and best practices. This not only helps in securing necessary approvals and permits but also enhances the reputation of the district as a place that values high-quality infrastructure.
• Public Confidence: Clear and well-defined standards provide assurance to the public that infrastructure projects are being carried out to the highest standards. This builds trust and confidence in the district's ability to manage and deliver essential services.

All new developments must adhere to these standards to ensure that the infrastructure is safe, reliable, and consistent with the district's requirements. This includes residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Alignment with the standards will allow faster approvals of development requests, without the standards each application needs to be assessed in more detail.