WATER SENSITIVE

URBAN DESIGN
A GUIDE FOR WSUD STORMWATER
MANAGEMENT IN WELLINGTON
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Wellington City Council gratefully acknowledges the support of the project work group members; the people and organisations
who took the time to make submissions and also the Environmental Reference Group for its overview and advice.

WORK IN PROGRESS
Please note that this guide is very much a work in progress, reflecting best practice in a fast moving and evolving field.
CONTENTS
Objectives of this guide.............................................2 PART FOUR: WSUD MEASURES 47
Who should read this?...............................................2 Key site parameters................................................48
How to use this guide...............................................2 Measures................................................................49
What is WSUD?.........................................................3 Rainwater storage tank...........................................50
Why WSUD in Wellington?.........................................4 Raingarden.............................................................52
Street trees/tree pits...............................................54
PART ONE: STORMWATER CYCLES 7
Living/green roofs...................................................56
Natural systems........................................................8
Green walls.............................................................57
Conventional stormwater systems...........................10
Swales....................................................................58
An integrated WSUD system....................................12
Permeable/porous paving........................................59
Harbour Quays, CentrePort......................................14
Detention tanks/pipes.............................................60
PART TWO: WELLINGTON 17 Ponds.....................................................................61
Catchments............................................................18 Wetlands.................................................................62
Streams..................................................................20 Depression storage.................................................64
Topography.............................................................22 Riparian buffer........................................................65
Geology, soil and permeability.................................24 All aboard the treatment train..................................66
Land use.................................................................26
PART FIVE: WSUD SELECTION 67
Stormwater pollutants.............................................28
Benefits..................................................................69
Wastewater network...............................................29
How this guide relates to other documents..............70
Flooding..................................................................30
Climate change.......................................................31

PART THREE: LAND ZONING AND WSUD 33

Low-density residential development......................34
Medium or high-density development.................. 36
Industrial development............................................38
Streets, private ways and car parks.........................40
Parks and gardens..................................................42
Bush and reserves..................................................44

Water Sensitive Urban Design 1

OBJECTIVES OF THIS GUIDE WHO SHOULD READ THIS?
The guide aims to help large and small-scale developers The successful implementation of WSUD requires
– public and private – to understand the importance of consideration from the outset of projects and the support
incorporating water-sensitive urban design (WSUD) into of a multidiscipline design team. By involving engineers,
future stormwater management projects. The background landscape architects, planners and the community,
of WSUD, land-use considerations and the local Wellington environmentally and economically viable solutions
context is provided in support of an overview of a range of can be developed to reduce the pressure on existing
WSUD systems that aim to: drainage systems.
„„ Stabilise water flows in streams This guide is intended to provide some context to
„„ Improve the quality of the water in our streams the planning for the implementation of WSUD and is
and harbours therefore for, but not limited to:
„„ Reduce the frequency and severity of flooding in „„ Developers
urban areas
„„ Consultants
„„ Reduce the quantity of stormwater entering the
„„ Land owners
sewerage system
„„ Restoration and other community groups
„„ Protect or enhance environmental, social and
„„ Council staff.
economic values
„„ Reduce demand on potable water supply
Improve amenity in the urban environment:
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
„„
enhancing the ‘liveability’ of Wellington.

The design and construction of site-specific WSUD This guide should be read in conjunction with the
measures, as part of integrated water management, more technically-oriented draft WSUD chapter of
must be undertaken by experienced professionals Wellington City’s Code of Practice for Land Development
with an understanding of the complexities and (COPLD). It is recommended all users review both
challenges involved. Specific design advice is not documents to become familiar with the concepts
included in this document. Acceptable approaches and devices in a Wellington context.
to stormwater management, technical considerations
As well as this there is a vast array of other technical
and how these will be assessed are outlined in the
design documents from New Zealand and overseas.
WSUD chapter of Wellington City Council’s Code
of Practice for Land Development (COPLD). This guide aims to introduce an integrated ‘treatment train’
approach to managing the city’s stormwater. WSUD should,
where practicable, be used within integrated catchment and
asset management plans. All projects should identify and
investigate WSUD opportunities at their various stages of
its lifecycle: conception, initiation, planning, execution and
operation, to deliver acceptable and workable WSUD results.

As designers become more familiar with the concepts

they may want to refer to the step-by-step device selection
procedures in the latter half of this document and then
the technical considerations in the COPLD.

2 Wellington City Council

WHAT IS WSUD?
WSUD is an approach to water management in towns and Stormwater is water that runs off urban hard
cities that addresses both water quantity and water quality surfaces such as roads, driveways, footpaths and
issues. WSUD draws upon the processes of natural systems
and adapts these to suit urban environments. It integrates
rooftops, whether flowing overland or in channels,
the processes inherent in water systems with the ‘built down sumps or pipes through a catchment.
environment’ – buildings, infrastructure and landscapes.

The urban water system includes potable water, wastewater

and stormwater. This guide focuses, for now, primarily WATER SENSITIVE URBAN DESIGN
on stormwater, but in doing so will have positive effects
on potable water demand and issues with unintended
wastewater discharges.
Urban design and built form
A stormwater system allows the passage of runoff to
avoid nuisance flooding and consequential damage
Urban water cycle
to public and private property. A WSUD system must
support this vital function.

The overarching objectives of WSUD are:

1. Protect or enhance the environmental, social and
economic values of downstream environments
Potable Waste- Storm-
2. Reduce the frequency, duration and volume of stormwater water water water
runoff to mitigate the risks of nuisance flooding and
moderate post-development flows to waterways
3. Reduce demand on potable water supply
4. Improve amenity in the urban environment. Integrated management for

Wellington’s stormwater network is separate

from the sewer system. Water Water
quality quantity

Protect receiving environments

Wastewater (sewage) is the liquid wastes

from a community including toilet, bathroom,
laundry and kitchen wastes and trade waste,
before treatment.
Water Sensitive Urban Design 3
WHY WSUD IN WELLINGTON?
An important part of Wellington’s environment, recreation, Using WSUD to treat stormwater, and reduce the
heritage and economy are the harbours and the sea existing impermeable areas of the city, will reduce
surrounding the city. Poor water quality sometimes the amount of rainwater in our drainage networks,
closes beaches and affects our enjoyment of our natural thus reducing flooding and overflows of sewage in
environment. Data from Wellington and Porirua harbours show the streams and the sea, ensuring the water entering
contaminants levels in excess of guidelines for aquatic life. our harbours is less contaminated.

Stormwater is traditionally drained through an engineered WSUD can effectively divert the greatest runoff volumes
pipe system designed to convey runoff and discharge and pollutant loads to infiltration (where suitable),
to the nearest water body (either stream or harbour). maintaining urban biodiversity and providing enhanced
These piped stormwater networks therefore also groundwater resource and baseflow to waterways.
efficiently move contaminants generated by urban
To protect the environment and meet legislative
activities to these water bodies. During heavy and
requirements, the principles of WSUD should be applied
prolonged rain, cross-connections and under-capacity
in the development of new subdivisions, the retrofitting
pipes can cause drainage systems to be overwhelmed
of city assets and neighbourhoods and the assessment
and for sewage to overflow into harbours and coastal
of resource consents.
waters. Higher flows can also cause erosion and flooding
of urban streams. Pipe networks, or grey infrastructure,
are also expensive to build and maintain.

POLICY TREE

New Zealand Legislation

Resource Management Act 1991

Greater Wellington Regional Council

Regional Policy Statement 2013

Wellington City Council Wellington City Council Wellington City Council WCC, PCC, UHCC, HCC, Capacity
Public Space Operative Code of Practice for Regional Standard for
Design Policy, 2010 District Plan Land Development, 2012 Water Services, 2012

4 Wellington City Council

Most traditional ‘grey’ infrastructure has
a single function. Green infrastructure,
by contrast, is multi-functional. Aside from
reducing pressure on the drainage network
and filtering out pollutants from stormwater,
WSUD can also bring more native flora and
fauna into the heart of the city, creating shade,
reducing carbon emissions and improving
streetscapes. WSUD can also help realise
the ‘Blue Belt’ vision of celebrating Wellington
Harbour and the value it brings to the city by
protecting marine habitats and making our
sea safe for an array of recreational activities.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 5

PART ONE
STORMWATER CYCLES

The natural water (hydrological) cycle describes

the continuous movement of water at, and below,
ground level. The water cycle is essential for the
maintenance of most life and ecosystems on the planet.

A number of processes occur between rain falling and

the water entering the sea. These processes occur in
a number of ways at different points along the water’s
path. The processes include interception, infiltration,
evapotranspiration, collection, transport, detention,
retention and discharge to sea.

To manage these processes effectively in an urban

setting requires a chain of intervention measures which
effectively work in series to deliver multiple benefits
for the overall system. Through the integration of
WSUD elements into the urban stormwater system,
the synergies between natural and engineered
processes can yield significant efficiencies and resilience
while improving the environment. This ‘whole of cycle’
approach is often referred to as a ‘treatment train’.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 7

NATURAL SYSTEMS

A B C D E

Precipitation Interception Attenuation and conveyance Uptake

Collection Treatment

In a natural system, rainfall is intercepted, absorbed and ATTRIBUTES OF A NATURAL SYSTEM

filtered by plants and the soil throughout the catchment. „„ Frequent flow attenuation
This infiltration keeps groundwater and soil moisture levels „„ Ecological complexity offering a range of
at reasonably stable levels and reduces the incidence of ecosystem services
surface flows. Soil and vegetation operates like a sponge „„ Infiltration charges ground water storage
– retaining and releasing water, collecting and attenuating and maintains soil moisture and baseflows
flows. Types of vegetation, soils, topography and land use „„ Habitats for aquatic animals and plants (biodiversity)
all significantly affect the natural hydrological cycle with „„ Nutrient recycling
resulting changes in the frequency, volume and duration
„„ Reduces contaminant volumes discharged
of runoff.
„„ Natural beauty (aesthetics and amenity).
Additionally, stream margins, or riparian areas, are an
important part of stream biodiversity – providing habitat ISSUES TO HUMAN SETTLEMENT
and shelter for fish, increasing bird and insect life, „„ Uncontrolled flooding on floodplains
improving water quality by filtering out some pollutants, „„ Challenges in integrating dynamic (natural)
moderating water temperature through shading and and rigid (man-made) structures.
reducing erosion of stream banks.

Research shows that vegetation can

increase water infiltration up to 60 times
compared to bare ground.

8 Wellington City Council

 Part One: Stormwater Cycles

F G H I J

Evapo-transpiration Infiltration Retention Evaporation Discharge

to receiving
environment
Storage

B C

H
D
D

J
G

If impervious surface levels rise above

7–10% of the catchment, stream ‘flashiness’
rises to such a point that habitat values are
severely compromised.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 9

CONVENTIONAL STORMWATER SYSTEMS

A B C D E

Precipitation Interception Uptake and Conveyance

evapo-transpiration

Collection

These systems have traditionally focused on flood Human and urban activities generate a wide range of
management – collecting rainwater runoff from impervious contaminants. When it rains, contaminants are washed
surfaces and quickly discharging it to streams or the off hard surfaces and into the stormwater networks.
sea. In conventional urban centres impervious surfaces This contamination of stormwater can result in public health
(such as roads, pavements, car parks and rooftops) risks, closing beaches and affecting recreation, shellfish
do not allow water to soak into the ground and therefore gathering and cultural and tourism values as well as
increase the frequency and volumes of runoff. impacting on marine and freshwater biota and ecosystems.

As impervious surfaces spread across catchments, Pollutants can include:

stormwater volumes and peak flow rates also increase. „„ Fine and coarse sediments from land development,
Following heavy rainfall, flow rates will rise rapidly and disturbed vegetation and windblown sources
can result in incidence of localised flooding in open channels „„ Litter: especially cigarette butts and plastics
and streams. This differs from natural stream systems which „„ Hydrocarbons and oil products from vehicles, road
are characterised by more gradual rise and fall in flow rates construction and unauthorised disposal in drains
and water levels. These unnatural ‘flashy’ events can erode „„ Nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous)
stream banks and channels, reduce habitat and diminish fish
„„ Pesticides, herbicides and fungicides from gardens
populations and variety.
„„ Heavy metals including lead, zinc and copper
When combined with pipes of limited capacity, this can (from vehicle wear, oils, buildings and paints)
cause flooding. „„ Human faecal matter: from sewer overflows
Hard surfaces reduce infiltration which reduces ground
„„ Animal faecal matter from the likes of dogs,
water and soil moisture content. This can cause soils to cats and birds.
shrink, destabilising older built structures and infrastructure.
ATTRIBUTES OF CONVENTIONAL SYSTEMS
Conversely saturated soils and basecourse beneath a road „„ Reduced land requirement (especially at surface)
surface can adversely affect the cohesive strength and
„„ Efficient conveyance of flows to manage flood risks
integrity of the road.
„„ Pollutants transported away from urban areas
„„ Prevents over-saturation of soil.

10 Wellington City Council

 Part One: Stormwater Cycles

F G H I J

Evaporation Infiltration Sediment and Conveyance Discharge

litter collection

Storage

A
C

C F A

B
B

D B

G
E H

PROBLEMS
„„ Unmitigated pollution of receiving ecosystems I
J
„„ Potential worsened flooding from reduced time
of concentrations
„„ Reduced recharge of ground water
(and low lying streams)
„„ Reliance on unseen infrastructure with risk of
element failure
„„ Reduced water for vegetation
„„ Disconnection of community with lost waterway
and ecological resources.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 11

AN INTEGRATED WSUD SYSTEM

A B C D E

Precipitation Interception Attenuation Uptake and Filtration

evapotranspiration and infiltration

Collection Treatment

Natural and urban stormwater systems each have their own In Wellington a WSUD approach would help the piped
attributes and issues. WSUD combines the positive attributes networks cope with increasing frequency of heavy rain
of the natural water cycle and urban-engineered network and reduce pollution of natural water bodies. The design
to design systems that use vegetation, soils and natural measures shown in this document are examples of how
processes to reduce the volume, rate and peak flows of this can be achieved.
stormwater runoff and improve the water quality of discharges.
ATTRIBUTES
For Wellington City, WSUD is intended as a series of holistic
„„ Distributed stormwater management
design and development practices that:
„„ Protects or enhances water quality in downstream
„„ Work with, not against, natural systems – supporting environments
integrated management of natural and physical resources
„„ Reduces the incidence of frequent nuisance flood events
„„ Enhance ecosystem and human health
„„ Improves the visual and ecological amenity of sites
„„ Maximise on-site management of effects in order and streets
to minimise off-site effects
„„ Reduces potable water use
„„ Foster the efficient use of resources – creating
„„ Improves urban ecology and habitat
opportunities to reduce, reuse and recycle thereby
„„ Provides passive irrigation to green infrastructure
reducing energy demand and waste generation
supporting passive cooling and landscape interest
„„ Recognise and provide for tangata whenua while fostering
„„ Celebrates water within the urban context to provide
kaitiakitanga (‘guardianship’) through partnership
education and a pride of place.
„„ Guide development so multiple social, cultural and
environmental functions co-exist
„„ Promote economically efficient, practical solutions that
consider total lifecycle cost and value to the community.

12 Wellington City Council

 Part One: Stormwater Cycles

F G H I J

Detention Evaporation Reuse Conveyance Discharge

and retention

Storage

ISSUES
„„ Lack of technical understanding in the design,
construction and operation
„„ Importance of components, such as soils and vegetation
to long term performance
„„ Adjustment to standard maintenance requirements
of drainage assets
„„ Need for strategic planning to optimise opportunities
and cost benefit ratios
„„ Challenges with quantifying intangible benefits
„„ Public perception of increased pest habitats.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 13

HARBOUR QUAYS, CENTREPORT – A WELLINGTON EXAMPLE
Private and public sites can collect, retain, treat, reuse and to detain and filter run-off. Clean filtered water flows
discharge clean water in a number of ways and contribute into slotted subsoil drains at the base of the swale and is
to the overall functionality and values of the urban system. then conveyed off site. During a big storm, excess water
overflows into a raised sump, less polluted than ‘first-flush’
CentrePort’s Harbour Quays development implements
run off this water is conveyed directly into a conventional
an integrated stormwater management strategy that
stormwater system.
deals with water quality and quantities at source.

The WSUD strategy for Harbour Quays focuses on RAINGARDENS

the implementation of swales, raingardens, tree pits Raingardens occur within urban plazas and laneways
and roof water storage ponds. The design and location to both improve stormwater runoff quality and visually
of these systems defines the character of the streets augment these spaces.
and open spaces.
TREE PITS
WSUD MEASURES INCLUDE: The majority of tree pits site wide filter stormwater
run-off from roads and foot path pavements.
SWALES
‘First-flush’ stormwater run-off, the earliest and ROOF WATER STORAGE PONDS
subsequently the most polluted component of rainfall, Park spaces within the site have been designed to
is directed towards a densely planted swale located either accommodate storage tanks and/or ponds for site-wide
in the median or at the road edge. The swales have capacity re-use in irrigation.

Image source: Wraight + Associates Ltd

14 Wellington City Council
 Part One: Stormwater Cycles

HARBOUR QUAYS WSUD STRATEGY SHOWING STORMWATER SYSTEM INTEGRATED WITH URBAN DESIGN

STREET NETWORK,
SQUARES & PARKS
Environmental Infrastructure in Public Domain
Public Domain - street network, squares + parks
wa
wraight + associates ltd
p 64 4 381 3355 I f 64 4 381 3366 I office @ waal.co.nz
po box 19212 . wellington . aotearoa new zealand
www.waal.co.nz

STORMWATER
COLLECTION

STORMWATER
STORAGE AND REUSE

STORMWATER
INFILTRATION
Image source: Wraight + Associates Ltd
Water Sensitive Urban Design 15
PART TWO
WELLINGTON
From the rugged, exposed south coast, to the harbour
and its bays, to the Town Belt, ridgelines and hilltops
– Wellington is a city where the natural and urban
environments are intertwined.

An important part of Wellington’s identity is the marine

environment that surrounds the city. Our environment
carries significant ecological, economic, social and
cultural value, and creates economic opportunities
for the city.

Like other cities and towns in New Zealand,

Wellington was originally covered in native vegetation.
The city was once cloaked by over 20,000 hectares
of lowland broadleaf podocarp forest. The land has also
been modified more than most other New Zealand cities
by the uplift by earthquakes and reclamation of the
shoreline as well as urban development filling in gullies,
piping streams, and creating flat building platforms.

Wellington’s topography, geology, urban layout

and climate pose challenges for stormwater
management which must be considered in the design
of infrastructure. While this can limit opportunities for
WSUD assets it does not preclude the implementation
with site-specific design responses required.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 17

CATCHMENTS
A water catchment is defined by topography. From ridgelines Wellington’s catchments are based on natural drainage
and hilltops headwater streams flow to successively larger characteristics. The urbanised part of the city comprises
streams, and eventually to a main stem stream, all draining 34 individual catchments ranging in size and elevation from
the surrounding catchment of its surface water. The main partly rural Kaiwharawhara (1917ha, maximum 440m
stream ultimately drains to coastal waters either via direct above sea level) to smaller urban catchments such as
discharge or tidal estuary. Tory (44ha, maximum 8m above sea level).

THE MAIN STORMWATER CATCHMENTS

18 Wellington City Council

 Part Two: Wellington

Surface water flows through these catchments in a

combination of natural streams and stormwater pipes that
discharge directly into the harbours (both Wellington and
Porirua) or the south coast. The stormwater system has
evolved with the development of the city. While there are
still some remnants of streams, most areas are serviced
by stormwater pipes.

The existing stormwater network comprises a gravity

system of sumps, pipes, culverts, grit traps, overland
flow paths and streams. There is some 550km of piped
network and upwards of 25km of open semi-urban
streams (excluding those in rural areas). Together they
convey almost 80 million cubic metres of stormwater
every year from buildings, roads, urban areas and open
spaces into the city’s coastal waters.

For catchment management purposes the 34 stormwater

catchments are combined based on the receiving
environment based on type of ecosystem and recreational
use. These combined catchments are: Lambton Harbour,
Evans Bay, Houghton and Island Bays, Lyall Bay, Eastern
Bays, and the urban stream catchments: Porirua, Owhiro,
Kaiwharawhara and Waitohi (Ngauranga) and Karori streams.

POLLUTION NEGATIVELY IMPACTS

ON RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 19

STREAMS
Streams are one of the Wellington region’s threatened In the case of Wellington, the open sections of streams are
ecosystems. Urban streams have been, and still are generally narrow and restricted channels with overhanging
being, heavily modified and influenced by development vegetation. Streams have an average grade of 7.25%
and urban activity. throughout the city – representing the steep Wellington
topography and the tendency for streams to only remain
Local watercourses and land features are highly significant
in the steepest and more isolated areas of the city.
to tangata whenua. Many sites are associated with iwi
histories, traditions and tikanga. Streams provide habitat and food for plants and animals
– from algae to eels. Although many of Wellington’s streams
Urban streams include Owhiro Stream, Kaiwharawhara,
are small, and some are even dry at certain times of the
Waitohi (Ngauranga), Karori and Porirua Stream and
year, their biological health is important both for the species
tributaries, as well as the ‘lost streams’ of Te Aro, Thorndon,
they support and also for the harbour and sea into which
Houghton Valley, Island Bay and Miramar. Seven historical
they flow.
streams (around 5km) flow through pipes beneath the
central city. They are Pipitea, Tiakiwai, Tutaenui, Waipiro, Stream margins, or riparian areas, are an important part of
Kumutoto and Waitangi streams. These streams are largely stream and catchment biodiversity; providing riparian habitat
forgotten, with most local people unaware of their existence. as well as improving water quality and habitat by providing
As Wellington developed, streams were piped by laying large shelter for fish, filtering out some pollutants, reducing
stormwater pipes along the beds of the original streams erosion to stream banks and increasing bird and insect life.
to provide flat building surfaces, improve sanitation and
Daylighting (opening up) the lost channels could provide
to deal with flooding.
valuable habitat, offer educational and recreational
Modifications to streams, their associated vegetated margins opportunities, enhance urban landscapes, and help to
(riparian areas) and the wider catchment have altered the give a place a sense of identity. Where daylighting is not
relationship of Māori with these resources. The streams feasible, water-sensitive features can be constructed that
remain, albeit piped underground, but still carry mauri reference their earlier presence.
and are of significant importance to tangata whenua.

Threatened species
Nearly all of New Zealand’s freshwater fish species migrate between freshwater and the
sea during their lives and this is an important part of their breeding cycle. This means that
if streams are lost, or if there are barriers to fish passage, then fish will become extinct
from that particular stream. Giant kokopu, long-finned eel and short-jawed kokopu are
all nationally threatened fish present in Wellington.

20 Wellington City Council

 Part Two: Wellington

WELLINGTONS HISTORIC STREAMS

NOW PIPED
WAIMAPIHI
STREAM

TE MAHANGA
STREAM

WAITANGI PARK

Water Sensitive Urban Design 21

TOPOGRAPHY
Wellington’s topography is highly diverse, ranging from Many of the more densely-developed areas of the city
steep hills to lowland flats. The city’s footprint is confined are in the lowland areas, including the central city.
by hills around Wellington and Porirua harbours and the Although this area is ideal for development, the flatter,
coast. Most of the city is characterised by steep slopes lowland areas of the city have become more flood-prone
and gullies draining to the flat coastal edge. The northern as the wider catchments have been developed. This is
suburbs are flatter, more undulating hillsides. because the piped system quickly and efficiently transfers
stormwater from the impervious upper catchment areas
downstream – increasing the likelihood of flooding.

If infiltration is maximised in the upstream and middle areas

of catchments, it can help reduce the frequency of local and
downstream floods, reduce erosion within remaining streams
and improve water quality.
2.4 Topography
CONTOURS AND CATCHMENT&BOUNDARY
slope

Upper Foothills

Characteristics Characteris
• Typically Steep • Medium
terrain and •
vegetated
Legend • Low site coverage

Catchment Zones
Contours Issues Issues
• High water velocities • High w
n • Slip Hazard • Conver

0 1 5km

22 Wellington City Council

 Part Two: Wellington

Upper Foothills

Characteristics Characteristics Lowlands

„„ Medium site coverage Characteristics
„„ Typically steep terrain
and vegetated „„ Some areas of fill „„ Typically flat
„„ Low site coverage „„ Low water velocities
„„ Extensive areas of fill
Issues
„„ High site coverage
Issues
„„ High water velocities
„„ High water velocities
„„ Slip hazard
„„ Convergence of
tributaries – flooding
Issues

„„ Flooding
„„ Tidal influences
„„ Limited open space

SLOPE TYPE

Wellington is characterised by steep hills and short flats connecting to a magnificent harbour or the wild coast.

Characteristics Issues

Slope > 10° High slip risk

Steep slope Typically shallow soil profile Potential erosion risk
High water velocities

5° > Slope > 10° Moderate slip risk

Gentle slope Some flooding

Slope < 5° Flooding risk

Flat Low water velocities

Water Sensitive Urban Design 23

GEOLOGY, SOIL AND PERMEABILITY
Bedrock geology describes the rock formations that Wellington greywacke produces silty, low-fertility, acidic soils
underlie an area. Soil is a mixture of mineral particles, with a high clay content. These clay soils are fine-grained,
organic matter, water and air. Soils are described in have low levels of permeability and are quickly saturated.
terms of their texture: e.g. sand, silt, clay.
Loose, unconsolidated colluvial soils, ranging from silt to
Bedrock and soils affect a variety of human activities; rock fragments, occur in the steeper valleys as a result
different soils are critical in determining viability of land of long-term land instability. These soils have variable
for development, industry, agriculture and recreation. infiltration characteristics but are often prone to instability
when saturated. Coarser-grained sands typically underlie the
Wellington is mostly underlain by greywacke (hardened
coastal environments of Lyall Bay, Strathmore and Seatoun.
sandstone and mudstone). Depth to bedrock is variable:
These soils have larger spaces between each grain and allow
sometimes it is more than 50m below the surface or can
water to infiltrate quickly.
be exposed along the sides of roads and in stream beds.
Shallow depth to bedrock typically impacts on infiltration.

WELLINGTON SOILS

24 Wellington City Council

 Part Two: Wellington

The rate of infiltration is affected by soil characteristics

including permeability, storage capacity and structure as
well as depth to the water table and bedrock. Vegetation
types and cover and rainfall intensity all play a role in
controlling the infiltration rate and capacity. High water
tables and lack of permeability can affect infiltration rate.

In urban areas, buildings and roads further restrict

water infiltration resulting in increased surface runoff.
The potentially high level of infiltration on sandy and
colluvial soils is adversely affected by the quantity
of impermeable surfaces on the flat coastal land.

WELLINGTON HARBOUR RECLAMATIONS CONTAIN VARIABLE FILL MATERIAL

(LAND RECLAMATION, THORNDON, WELLINGTON (CA 1925). ALEXANDER TURNBULL LIBRARY)

Water Sensitive Urban Design 25

LAND USE
Wellington City is surrounded by nature, albeit modified. Stormwater runoff is heavily influenced by surrounding
The central city by contrast is characterised by hard land use and activities. Research1 shows, fairly conclusively,
surfaces and little vegetation. The growth of the city has that the sources of contamination are from buildings
2.5 Land use
resulted in extensive areas of sealed surfaces, including (especially unpainted galvanised iron roofs) and neighbouring
roofs, pavements and roads. Due to the topographical land uses. Roads are contributors, recipients and conveyors
constraints, the early urban design of Wellington restricted of contaminants from adjacent and often extensive
large parklands to the surrounding town belt with limited contributing areas.
provision of open space within the central city. Historically
many stream gullies were backfilled (often as landfills)
and now comprise a number of Wellingtons sporting fields.

DISTRICT PLAN ZONINGS

Legend

Outer Residential
Inner Residential
Suburban Centre
Central Area
Institutional Precinct
Airport Precinct
Rural
Conservation
Open Space A
Open Space B
n
Open Space C
0 1 5km Catchment Zones
Built density

1 http://www.rcaforum.org.nz/stormwater-research
26 Wellington City Council
 Part Two: Wellington

Land use, density and site coverage in Wellington has

been influenced heavily by topography. Flat, low-lying
areas have Wellington’s most dense development and
diverse uses including industry, commercial and residential
– all served by road networks which infiltration and
contribute to contaminant loads. Stand-alone housing,
often on higher, steeper slopes, generally has less site
coverage and lower levels of contaminant generation.
The city has more than 4000 hectares of parks and
reserve lands, including the inner and outer Town Belts,
predominantly on higher slopes, for recreation, wildlife,
and scenery. The extensive tree cover in these reserves
also stabilise slopes, reducing erosion, and intercept
water and recycle nutrients.

A range of past industries and activities, such as former

landfill, gasworks and hazardous substances storage sites,
have contaminated areas of land. The use, development
(including redevelopment) and subdivision of contaminated
land can mobilise contaminants to watercourses or the
stormwater network.

Research has found that when impervious surfaces reach

10% of the area of a catchment, a critical threshold is
reached in terms of the impacts caused by stormwater2.

2 Stormwater Planning: A Guidebook for British Columbia

Water Sensitive Urban Design 27
STORMWATER POLLUTANTS
Human and urban activities generate a wide range of for short durations, however public health is at risk
contaminants which are often transported in stormwater. and ability to enjoy the coast is compromised.
Wellington and Porirua harbours, like other coastal
Of more significance in the long-term is the impact of
environments surrounded by populated areas, receive
silting and sedimentation. Hydrodynamic modelling of
significant volumes of stormwater with the potential to
Porirua Harbour indicates sedimentation rates average
pollute their ecosystems.
about 6mm per year in the Onepoto Arm and 9mm per
Apart from roadside sumps that collect some sediment year in the Pauatahanui Inlet. Work 2 has shown that the
and litter, there is typically no treatment of stormwater biggest sediment contribution is from bare land under
in a traditional network prior to discharge. These piped construction (37%), followed by pasture (33%) and with
stormwater networks therefore move contaminants to urban runoff contributing the rest (10%). Silt is smothering
the sea quickly and efficiently. the seabed, affecting seagrass and shellfish beds,
and may be depleting the harbour’s ability to attract
The 2011 Wellington Harbour sub-tidal sediment
and sustain fish. Localised reduction in harbour depths
quality monitoring survey1 identified marked increases
is affecting navigability for even small vessels.
in contaminants around major stormwater outfalls.
In places, these contaminants are at concentrations These findings reinforce the importance of construction
where adverse biological effects are likely to occur sediment and erosion control and the need to manage
and it appears to be influencing the composition of sites in accordance with consent conditions. While WSUD
invertebrate communities at some sites. infrastructure is designed to capture typical urban sediment
loadings it is not generally designed to manage construction
Sewage overflows to the coast during heavy rain
activities which require specially-designed sediment basins,
have a relatively short term impact – with swimming
flocculation and site-wide management.
not recommended for 48 hours or beaches closed

1 http://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Our-Environment/Environmental-monitoring/ 2 Porirua Harbour Catchment Revised Sediment Load Estimates (11 April 2013)
Environmental-Reporting/Technical-publications/Wellington-Harbour-Subtidal- Leigh Stevens and Barry Robertson, Wriggle Coastal Management, for Greater
Sediment-Quality-Monitoring-Results-from-the-2011-Survey-Report-only.pdf Wellington Regional Council

28 Wellington City Council

 Part Two: Wellington

WASTEWATER NETWORK
Wellington City’s stormwater discharges have historically
been contaminated with sewage, particularly following
heavy rainfall. Inflow and infiltration results in stormwater
entering the ageing wastewater system and vice versa,
as a result of interconnected sewers and storm drains
because of historic design, leaky joints or old cracked
pipes which subsequently exceeds capacity and then
overflows to the sea. This is worsened by illegal stormwater
connections into the wastewater system.

The proportion of inflow and infiltration increases

significantly during or immediately after heavy rain and
in some sewer catchments the ratio of peak wet-weather
flows to average dry-weather flow is as high as 10:1.

While significant investment has been made in sewer

management and there has been success in reducing
contamination of stormwater, wet-weather pollution
remains a challenge.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 29

FLOODING
Large-scale flooding has occurred in the recent past Extensive areas of impervious surfaces in the city can
in the Miramar, Island Bay, Newtown, Taranaki Street, contribute to the flooding problem, particularly the more
Te Aro, Karori and Kaiwharawhara catchments and frequent events. Urban intensification, increased building
Tawa due to a combination of factors, including capacity footprints, reduced section sizes and increased impervious
of existing infrastructure, topography and permeability surfaces contribute to increased runoff from small events
of the land. which would otherwise be retained within the catchments.

Investigations triggered by flooding and flood-hazard

modelling have identified many areas where the stormwater
network does not have enough capacity to effectively convey
water for the intended return interval storm event.

Until the 1980s, the stormwater network was designed

to handle a 5-year return period storm, with excess flow
being carried along streets and nominated overland flow
paths. Today only about 10% of stormwater pipes meet
the Council’s 50-year return storm capacity standard.
The remaining 90% of pipes generally have capacity for
2–5 year return storms and will result in variable magnitudes
of surface flooding in events greater than this. In these
instances the importance of well-defined and designated
overland (secondary) flow paths is critical to reduce the
incidence of damage to property and assets.

30 Wellington City Council

 Part Two: Wellington

CLIMATE CHANGE
The effects of climate change are increasingly being felt Future asset design must consider the impact of climate
both locally and globally. The Intergovernmental Panel on change, particularly increases in rainfall frequency and
Climate Change’s Fifth Assessment Report (2014) predicts intensity, and a rising sea level, and ensure that holistic
more frequent and heavy rainfall, frequent storms and design solutions manage and mitigate these risks.
increasing droughts.
WSUD can play a fundamental role in the future mitigation
Many activities and assets are, or will become, at risk of climate change through measures such as keeping water
from the impacts of climate change. It is anticipated that in the landscape (attenuating runoff) and increasing green
more intense rainfall and storm surges (coupled with rising spaces within urban centres for shade.
sea levels) will result in more frequent flooding as existing
infrastructure and our conventional systems for managing
water resources are overwhelmed.

The solution of replacing existing drainage pipes with

even larger ones, in isolation from catchment wide WSUD
interventions, is extremely disruptive, prohibitively expensive,
and is considered unlikely to provide the optimal sustainable
long-term solution.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 31

32 Wellington City Council
PART THREE:
LAND ZONING AND WSUD

Studies have identified stormwater contaminant

sources and the extent to which they are of concern
in Wellington. Land use and catchment characteristics
strongly influence the selection of WSUD options,
their design and long term operation.

This document gives guidance on a range of land

areas including:

Individual residential household sites

Multiunit residential developments on individual sites
Individual commercial or industrial
Parks or open space
Retrofitting current developments.

To effectively manage stormwater, site design and

source control are required. Source control is the
control of pollutants at the place they originate.

This section offers general guidance on potential

WSUD devices suitable for different sites and land
uses in Wellington to help restore a more natural
hydrologic regime and help the piped networks cope
during heavy rain as well as improving water quality.

The use of trees and vegetation in the urban

environment not only enhances stormwater management
but also has other benefits including improved air
quality, lower greenhouse gas emissions, shade,
aesthetics, habitat for species and noise reduction.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 33

LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
CHARACTERISTICS
AIM
Low-density residential development is characterised
by low-rise, single houses on individual lots, typically Collect, detain and reuse stormwater on site to reduce
associated with private open space in the form of discharge into stormwater network.
rear gardens and/or street setbacks. Land ownership
is likely to be under the control of a single owner with
site coverage not generally exceeding 35% of the lot area. POTENTIAL WSUD MEASURES:
Green roofs to reduce runoff volume and provide
ISSUES thermal benefits
Demand/need for landscape amenity Rainwater tanks to reuse water and smooth peak
Reliance on mains water discharge flow
Impervious pavements increase runoff. Permeable paving to reduce runoff volumes
Distributed raingardens to improve stormwater quality
and smooth peak discharge flow
OPPORTUNITIES
Soak pits to charge ground water
Integration of vegetated WSUD measures in the
Vegetative cover to reduce runoff volumes
streetscape to provide landscape amenity
Centralised raingardens or wetlands integrated into
Roof water collection and storage to supplement
public open space.
mains water supply
Opt for permeable paving to reduce runoff.

LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL,

TITLE
CHURTON PARK

34 Wellington City Council

 Part Three: Land Zoning and WSUD

RAINWATER TANK PERMEABLE PAVING

RAIN GARDEN VEGETATIVE COVER

Water Sensitive Urban Design 35

MEDIUM OR HIGH-DENSITY
DEVELOPMENT
(RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INSTITUTIONAL)

CHARACTERISTICS
Medium to high-density development typically has
a site-coverage of more than 35%. Multiple units,
uses and ownership may, but not always, occur on
a single parcel of land. Private open space is limited
and communal or public open space associated with
the development is at a premium.

ISSUES
High site coverage (imperviousness) increases runoff
Range of demands and uses of limited open space.

OPPORTUNITIES
Integrate WSUD measures into the architecture of
structures to reduce runoff volume
Integrate vegetated WSUD measures to provide landscape
amenity in both private and public open space
WSUD measures can enhance sustainable profiles of
buildings and organisations.

AIM
Collect, detain and treat stormwater to improve quality
and reduce discharge from site. Integrate WSUD measures
to create multifunctional architecture and open space.

POTENTIAL WSUD MEASURES

Green roofs to reduce runoff volume and provide
thermal benefits
Green walls to slow runoff and smooth peak discharge
»» Vertical gardens (climbers) to shade
north-facing facades
Rainwater tanks for re-use and/or to smooth
peak discharge
Permeable paving in pedestrian areas to reduce
runoff volumes
Raingardens and wetlands to provide amenity,
detention, stormwater treatment and biodiversity.

WELLINGTON HIGH
DENSITY DEVELOPMENT

36 Wellington City Council

 Part Three: Land Zoning and WSUD

GREEN ROOF GREEN WALL

RAINWATER TANK RAINGARDEN

Water Sensitive Urban Design 37

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
CHARACTERISTICS
AIM
Industrial activities are typically associated with large
Collect, detain and treat stormwater to improve quality
areas of roof and impervious pavement with heavy traffic
and reduce discharge from site. Use WSUD measures to
movements and vehicle related contaminants. They are
mitigate effects that may be associated with commercial
often associated with hazardous substances that have to
and industrial activities.
be carefully managed to prevent contact with stormwater
runoff. Generally, this type of open space is valued for its
function over amenity. POTENTIAL WSUD MEASURES
Rainwater tanks for re-use e.g. irrigation, vehicle washing
ISSUES
and to smooth peak discharge flow
High site coverage increases runoff
Raingardens, lined when on contaminated sites,
Often increased contaminant loadings due to nature
to improve stormwater quality
of vehicle movements
Carbon and sand filters to treat runoff where space
Inherent risk associated with on-site
is limited
hazardous substances.
Street trees to increase permeability and provide shade,
OPPORTUNITIES wind shelter, amenity and habitat.
WSUD can be used as tools within hazardous
substances risk management strategies
WSUD can treat runoff from impervious pavements
WSUD vegetation measures can be used to mitigate
site activity impacts on adjacent land uses.
WSUD can enhance the image of companies/
organisations.

CENTREPORT

38 Wellington City Council

 Part Three: Land Zoning and WSUD

BIO-RETENTION SYSTEM SUBSURFACE RAIN TANK

STREET TREES FILTER MEDIA

Water Sensitive Urban Design 39

STREETS, PRIVATE WAYS AND CAR PARKS
CHARACTERISTICS
AIM
Streets, private ways and car parks are the most
The integration of collection, detention, treatment
accessible forms of open space in urban areas.
and infiltration of stormwater within road reserves,
They facilitate the movement of pedestrians,
private ways and car parks, prior to discharge
vehicles and services. Typically associated with
into the conventional stormwater network or
impermeable surfacing such as pavements and
receiving environment.
roads, runoff from streets, private ways and car
parks receive and convey contaminants from vehicles,
road materials, maintenance operations and spillages. POTENTIAL WSUD MEASURES
Raingardens and bio-retention systems in car parks
ISSUES
or along verges to filter, treat and detain stormwater
Contamination accumulation on surfaces and
while improving amenity and habitat
conveyance by stormwater runoff
Perforated kerbs to allow runoff to enter
Competing demand for space (at and below grade)
detention/treatment measures
for amenity, movement and provision of services
Vegetated swales to intercept and slow runoff
Management of infiltration to avoid oversaturation
Street trees to increase permeability, provide shade
of substrates and associated risks.
and shelter, improve amenity and habitat
Permeable paving in pedestrian areas to reduce
OPPORTUNITIES
runoff volume
Streets may be well placed to treat stormwater
In-ground tanks to store treated stormwater for
through properly designed raingardens
reuse in irrigation and to smooth peak flows.
Increased use of street trees to provide canopy
and mitigate heat-island impacts
WSUD measures can enhance environmental
quality and enhance amenity in streets,
private ways and car parks.

JERVOIS QUAY

40 Wellington City Council

 Part Three: Land Zoning and WSUD

SWALE DETENTION POND

RAIN-GARDENS PERMEABLE PAVING

Water Sensitive Urban Design 41

PARKS AND GARDENS
CHARACTERISTICS
Parks and gardens are areas of City Council-managed
AIM
open space used for active and passive recreation. Design parks and gardens to provide detention and
These will often be designed and delivered as part retention to mitigate adverse effects of stormwater
of larger scale subdivisions, particularly in the growth runoff on the downstream system, while balancing
areas to the north of Wellington CBD in the Porirua the recreational needs of the community.
Harbour catchment.

ISSUES POTENTIAL WSUD MEASURES

Recreational needs of the community may restrict Raingardens to treat stormwater from larger
where and to what extent WSUD measures occur. contributing catchments
New parks should be planned to accommodate Wetlands to slow and treat stormwater and provide
multiple uses. amenity, biodiversity and habitat.
Vegetation cover to reduce runoff and enhance infiltration
OPPORTUNITIES Attenuate flows from infrequent large rainfall events
Integrate WSUD measures to support Council Public within parks (can be integrated with raingardens
Space Design Policy Objective 6: sustainability and/or wetlands) to smooth peak flows
Look for strategic opportunities to design regional Vegetated swales to slow runoff and allow infiltration.
raingardens and wetlands to efficiently treat stormwater
from a large urban catchment
Plan and manage parks and gardens to allow for WSUD
measures while balancing the recreational requirements
of the community
Provide riparian buffers
To work with care groups to contribute to overall
catchment goals.

NATIVE FLORA AND FAUNA IN

CLOSE PROXIMITY TO URBAN LIFE

42 Wellington City Council

 Part Three: Land Zoning and WSUD

CONSTRUCTED WETLAND VEGETATED SWALE

BIO-RETENTION TREEPIT RAINGARDEN

Water Sensitive Urban Design 43

BUSH AND RESERVES
CHARACTERISTICS
AIM
Bush and reserves are areas of established or regenerating
vegetation (native, exotic and mixed). Values include Protect open space and reserves from the quality
ecological processes, passive recreation, scenic amenity and quantity impacts of stormwater discharges,
and natural heritage. Bush and reserves may be managed through providing upstream attenuation to mitigate
by the City Council, the Department of Conservation or adverse effects of stormwater runoff on the downstream
private landowners. Areas of bush and reserve often have system and WSUD measures to treat water quality.
a natural water cycle – for example, a stream – formed by Protect, retain and enhance streams in their natural state.
topography, soils and vegetation cover. However bush and
reserves often receive urban stormwater runoff.
POTENTIAL WSUD MEASURES
Riparian or stream margin management is an important part Catchment WSUD measures to treat stormwater prior
of stream and catchment biodiversity. This improves water to discharge into natural streams
quality and habitat by giving shelter for fish, filtering out Plant or enhance vegetation to mitigate quality and
some pollutants, preventing damage to stream banks and quantity effects of urban stormwater entering areas
increasing bird and insect life. of bush or reserve
Dissipation measures to mitigate erosion caused
ISSUES by point discharges
Degradation of bush areas and reserves due to the Retention and detention ponds to attenuate,
discharge of contaminated urban stormwater store runoff, smooth peak flows, provide habitat
Erosion and scouring of areas of bush and reserve due and fire-fighting supply.
to changes in the natural hydrological regime resulting
in increased frequency, duration and magnitude of
runoff events.

OPPORTUNITIES
Establish or enhance riparian planting to increase
the ability to remove contaminants and manage
water temperature and flow
Protect and enhance vegetation cover
Implement WSUD measures to manage the quality
and quantity of urban stormwater prior to discharge
into areas of bush or reserve
Provide 5m-minimum riparian buffers
Work with care groups to contribute to overall
catchment goals.

44 Wellington City Council

 Part Three: Land Zoning and WSUD

BUFFER PLANTING RIPARIAN PLANTING

DETENTION POND DISSIPATION MEASURE

OTARI-WILTON’S BUSH

Water Sensitive Urban Design 45

46 Wellington City Council
PART FOUR:
WSUD MEASURES

This section introduces WSUD measures and device

selection procedures that can be applied on large
and small-scale developments on typical Wellington
soils and slopes.

Many factors influence the design, implementation,

maintenance and cost of individual WSUD measures.
The Council will consider certain devices on
a case-by-case basis against performance criteria
which include catchment conditions, topography,
soakage, and total site area. A combination of devices
– a treatment train – will be favoured to meet the
two primary functions – attenuation or treatment.

These performance criteria and guidance material

are introduced briefly below. Acceptable approaches,
technical considerations and how these will be assessed
are outlined in the WSUD chapter of Wellington City’s
Code of Practice for Land Development (COPLD).

This guide does not cover structural, proprietary

devices. Neither does it give detailed assessment
and engineering design of WSUD devices.

The Council is endorsing the New Zealand Water

and Environmental Research Foundation’s (NZWERF)
On-Site Stormwater Management Guidelines (2004)
as a guide for the step-by-step device-specific
guidance for sizing and design procedures.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 47

KEY SITE PARAMETERS
The main considerations that determine the stormwater IMPERVIOUSNESS
characteristics and selection of WSUD measures are
Stormwater impacts increase dramatically when more than
topography, slope, neighbouring properties, infiltration
10% of the land area in a given catchment is considered
capacity and catchment imperviousness.
impervious. The impacts of impervious area are cumulative
Aside from the many benefits, there are risks in applying – an existing development that is not creating a problem
WSUD principles to Wellington topography and soil may contribute to a future problem as adjacent land is
conditions. To mitigate the risks, criteria have been drafted infilled. Measures to reduce imperviousness in new and
to inform the application of WSUD solutions and devices. existing urban areas should be adopted.

SLOPE DETENTION AND RETENTION

The slope of land at the likely device location may affect The restoration of more natural hydrologic regime is
the types of devices that can be used or contribute to central to WSUD concepts. Hydrologic restoration involves
slope stability issues that might affect the disposal method. both detention (peak flow attenuation) and retention
The slope of the catchment areas that contribute to proposed (reduced volume).
devices is used to calculate the time of concentration and
The developer must provide plans and supporting
runoff flow rates.
information sufficient to show that the runoff flows
will be less than or equal to the run off flows prior to
SOAKAGE development. This may be achieved through detention
In Wellington, ground infiltration will only be considered or retention. The runoff coefficient for a site can be
when there is sufficient proven soakage capability available calculated from information in the Code of Practice for
in the nominated area and will be subject to a satisfactory Land Development section D8.4.
test by an engineer. Available soakage can be established
Detention and retention, using WSUD devices, can be
from the Department of Building and Housing’s Verification
used to limit the discharge from the property to mitigate
Method E1/VM1 (December 2000). Provision for drainage
adverse effects on the downstream system. This may be
connections to the stormwater network must always be
a requirement of the Council depending on the condition
included in addition to any designed infiltration.
of the downstream stormwater system.
Where soakage to ground is not available, a piped collection
These can take the form of an above-ground i.e. rainwater
system at the base of bioretention features is acceptable.
tank or pond or buried tank, and may be combined
Moderate lengths of oversized pipes may also be used
with soakage.
for detention purposes with provision for overflow to the
downstream pipeline. The use of lined bioretention systems
with permanently saturated anoxic zones beneath the filter
media are encouraged to improve the treatment performance
(de-nitrification) and support plants during prolonged
dry periods.

48 Wellington City Council

 Part Four: WSUD Measures

MEASURES
During site design and planning for any development or The NZWERF Guidelines provide the information needed
redevelopment of property it is possible to define where to select and design suitable on-site stormwater
stormwater is coming from, how much stormwater is management devices so only general outline comment
expected and how to manage that stormwater. is given here. The potential WSUD measures listed in
the Land Use section of this guide are briefly overviewed
An extensive range of resources is available to practitioners
below all of which can be used to intercept, retain and
to select and design WSUD stormwater devices. The design
infiltrate runoff;
of such devices is critical to their long-term performance
with significant implications for maintenance, life cycle and „„ Rain tank
sustained functionality. The design of WSUD stormwater „„ Raingarden
devices must always be undertaken by an engineer with „„ Street trees
demonstrated experience with such devices. „„ Roof garden/living roof
„„ Green walls
The Council endorses the New Zealand Water and
Environmental Research Foundation’s (NZWERF)
„„ Swale
On-Site Stormwater Management Guidelines (2004) „„ Permeable pavement
for sizing and design procedures. „„ Detention tank/pipes
„„ Pond
The NZWERF Guidelines shall be used in conjunction
„„ Depression storage
with the technical guide contained as the WSUD chapter
„„ Wetland.
of Wellington City’s Code of Practice for Land Development
(COPLD) to undertake the detailed design. Measures included in this guide are not exhaustive.
Detailed design should also note the particular Probably the best known examples of WSUD devices
considerations applying WSUD principles to Wellington are rain tanks, raingardens, wetlands and swales.
topography and soil conditions and make the correct
In Wellington a number of WSUD solutions have been
response for Wellington.
implemented. The 80 raingardens along the quays,
tree pits in lower Cuba Street, the wetlands at Waitangi
Park – all provide stormwater treatment and storage for
runoff from roads and other hard surfaces. Similarly the
stormwater from the Westchester Drive extension in
The On-site Stormwater Management Churton Park flows into swales – shallow, sloping hollows
Guideline was published in 2004 by the designed to slow the flow of water, trap pollutants and
New Zealand Water Environment Research replicate nature. The National War Memorial Park in
Foundation with the financial support of the Buckle Street will be the latest example. The park will
incorporate rain gardens to detain stormwater to irrigate
Minister for the Environment’s Sustainable the terraced park.
Management Fund. The guide provides
The following sheets state the primary function
developers, designers, planners, asset
(attenuation or treatment), a brief description,
managers and stormwater design professionals the benefits and considerations of WSUD devices.
with information to select and design appropriate
on-site stormwater management devices for
the majority of applications in New Zealand.
Water Sensitive Urban Design 49
RAINWATER STORAGE TANK
PRIMARY FUNCTION DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Attenuation, little treatment potential. „„ Specific design standards in terms of materials, size,
holding capacity and discharge from the storage tank
A sealed tank, serving an individual property, designed to
shall be provided by manufacturer
collect rainwater from roof collection through a downpipe,
„„ Storage tank size shall be calculated based upon
or from car parking or other areas, directly into above
the size of the impervious surface area from which
ground or underground storage tanks.
water is collected
Storage tanks allow the reuse of collected rainwater as „„ Calculate extent of design storm rainfall to be
a substitute for non-potable mains water supply, either stored in the tank and provide overflow capability
inside or outside the building (including toilet flushing, for storm events
laundry use or garden watering, car washing and all „„ Site the storage tanks near buildings when possible
other external outdoor uses). but not within 0.5m of a boundary due to the risk
to neighbouring property and/or stability
BENEFITS „„ Site storage tank in open spaces to facilitate cleaning
„„ Rainwater harvesting encourages the reuse of rainwater and maintenance
for everyday and emergency use „„ Storage tanks can be used in conjunction with a site
„„ Rainwater can be safely used, without significant sprinkler system to irrigate lawns and garden beds
treatment, for a number of end uses in both residential „„ Seal the storage tank at the inlet to avoid insect
and commercial settings ingress and mosquito breeding
„„ Reuse creates a significant offset in potable water use „„ Must be fitted with a ‘first flush’ device to ensure
„„ Stored rainwater has the added advantage of improving pollutants and sediments are diverted to the stormwater
community resilience during and after disasters. network, as appropriate, before reaching the tank,
where usage other than outside the house is intended.
WHEN IS THIS SUITABLE?
There are many styles of rainwater tank available
MAINTENANCE
– ones for under the house, between the house and „„ It is the responsibility of the property owner to
garage, or bladders that squeeze beneath your deck. regularly inspect and maintain their storage tank
„„ Annual flushing out of tank to remove particulate matter,
Rainwater that may be used inside the home should only salts and other debris that may collect
be collected from roofs covered in painted galvanised iron, „„ Regular inspection to ensure structural integrity
Colorbond, Zincalume and concrete, slate or ceramic tiles. „„ Regular maintenance of first-flush device
Unpainted galvanised roofs, or those coated with lead „„ Replace filters and pumps as per
– or bitumen-based paints or asbestos cement roofs
manufacturer’s requirements.
must not be used.
COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
Ascertain resource and building consent requirements
for individual sites, as certain areas and different sizes
of tanks may require different approaches.

50 Wellington City Council

 Part Four: WSUD Measures

RAINWATER TANK

Ø 13 cm

Ø 2,5 cm
9,4 cm

Ø 12,5 cm
DN 70/80/100
6 cm

Max. DN 70-100
2 cm

Max.

Warranty for Emergency Rainwater Tanks

Subject to the warranty conditions below Mouldings Unlimited (“the Manufacturer”) provides its customers (“the purchaser”) with the following warranty:

For a period not exceeding 10 years from the purchase date, the Manufacturer will, at its option, repair or replace any defect in the purchaser’s rainwater
tank, provided that:

a) The defect has arisen solely from faulty material or workmanship;

b) The tank has not been subjected to maltreatment or interference;
c) The fault has not arisen as the result of inattention or installation by the purchaser;
d) Installation instructions have been strictly complied with;
e) The tank is used solely for the purpose of fixed water storage;
f) The tank has not been moved from its original installation;
g) The tank has been free from chemicals sprayed onto the outer surfaces;
h) Water within the tank has not been chemically treated to levels unsafe for human consumption.
I) This warranty excludes all other items supplied with the tank.
Water Sensitive Urban Design 51
All implied warranties and conditions other than those provided in the warranty are expressly excluded except where they cannot be excluded by law.
Where such terms cannot be excluded, then to the extent that the law allows, the Manufacturer’s liability shall be limited to the remedies available under
such legislation, and the Manufacture will not be liable for any special damage, loss of profits, or other indirect or consequential loss or damage suffered
by the purchaser.
RAINGARDEN
PRIMARY FUNCTION „„ Vegetation can provide valuable urban habitat for insects
and birds and help to mitigate air pollution and capture
Significant attenuation and treatment benefits.
carbon dioxide from the air, improving environmental
A raingarden is the term commonly used to describe a and public health
vegetated area which together acts to attain and filter „„ Can incorporate community facilities such as seating
small amounts of stormwater. The selection of plants is or other furnishings to encourage social and recreational
critical to performance to ensure that they are resilient activities, depending on its size and asset owner.
to the prolonged dry spells with episodic inundation.
Raingardens comprise a number of elements including WHEN IS THIS SUITABLE?
inlets, selected vegetation, overflow pit, free draining filter Raingardens are able to tolerate low levels of pollutants from
media (sandy loam), drainage layer, perforated underdrains vehicles and urban land uses, so are viable adjacent to roads
(with inspection risers) and an outlet connection to the and car parks, where slope is suitable.
stormwater network. Depending on site considerations and
objectives the base and sides can be either lined or unlined. Raingardens can range in size and shape from small thin
gardens in road medians or along footpaths to planted kerb
Surface runoff flows into a raingarden and is first filtered extensions to large-scale stormwater management systems.
through the surface vegetation removing litter, leaves and Typically they should be limited to around 500m2 in filter
sediment. It then filters through the filter medium where surface area.
fine particles are removed and soluble nutrients are taken
up by roots of the plants and soil microbes. The provision DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
of a freeboard (extended detention) allows temporary „„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific
ponding at the surface.
basis in consultation with the relevant agencies
At the base, water can either be collected by slotted „„ Careful consideration must be given to overflow control,
pipes and directed into a drainage system or allowed plant species, subsurface conditions infiltration rates
to infiltrate to ground at the base of the raingarden. and maintenance requirements
„„ Raingarden size shall be calculated based upon the size
BENEFITS of the area from which water is collected. The size of the
„„ Raingardens and other planted areas not only provide rain garden should generally vary between two percent
amenity but also enhance urban biodiversity, and can help of its drainage area
manage stormwater in terms of water quality and quantity „„ Make the rain garden large enough to pond runoff from
„„ Adopting stormwater-capturing garden designs on the first 25mm of rainfall in the rain garden
a widescale basis can help reduce stormwater „„ Filter media should have suitable hydraulic conductivity
volumes entering the sewer system during storms in the range of 100 to 200mm/hr
„„ Well-designed raingardens will not require any irrigation „„ Infiltration to ground can occur where proven soakage
(following establishment) and can support a wide range capability is available. Liner and subsoil drainage to be
of drought-tolerant species provided if this is not possible

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 Part Four: WSUD Measures

„„ Design the rain garden with adequate fall between inlet MAINTENANCE
(particularly with piped inflows) and stormwater drain for „„ Monthly removal of litter and debris
outlet connection. Insufficient depth can result in reduced
„„ Plant maintenance, such as manual irrigation
extended detention or shallower filter media
during drought, weeding, pruning and pest control
„„ Design footpaths and surrounding area to direct
„„ Annual inspection and repair of raingarden profile
stormwater into raingardens wherever suitable
to ensure flow conveyance
and practicable
„„ Routinely inspect and repair inlets and overflow
„„ Design the entry edge to protect against erosion and
to clear any blockage
scour from inflow
„„ Replace all filter medium and planting as required
„„ Where raingardens border footpaths the design shall
by design
cater for pedestrian safety
„„ Respond to unusual events – for example remove
„„ Where vehicles can legally park beside a raingarden,
filter medium if there is a large oil spillage or
provision shall be made for passengers to alight from
evidence of clogging.
the vehicle onto a stable surface
„„ Need to consider underground utilities, including the
relocation of street drainage or require sump relocation.
COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
„„ Plant the raingarden with a combination of native plants Ascertain resource consent requirements for
of various types including grasses, sedges, rushes and individual sites.
woody shrubs.

RAIN GARDEN/STORMWATER PLANTER

Edge planting that can tolerate Moisture tolerant Grass or groundcover

fluctuating water levels planting in lower area filter strip

Growth media Perforated pipe, in filter fabric Drainage metal

connected to drainage system

Water Sensitive Urban Design 53

STREET TREES/TREE PITS
PRIMARY FUNCTION DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Used to provide some treatment and detention capacity. „„ Meet minimum size and design requirements of the
Code of Practice for Land Development (Section C.4)
Street trees are used at regular intervals to soften the „„ If work includes tree planting, consider the location of
streetscape. They capture stormwater, improve air quality, utility infrastructure, including sewers and water mains
quality of life and soften the built environment. They change „„ Maximise exposed soil to allow more water and air to
with the seasons and provide a sense of scale within the
get to the roots of the tree. Use Rock PaveTM or other
built urban environment. permeable paving surface treatments over the tree pit
The Council currently has two types of tree pit – individual in high pedestrian traffic areas
street tree pits are the only required design, and tree pits „„ Design footpaths and surrounding area to direct
that capture stormwater from the adjacent road. stormwater into tree pits wherever advisable
„„ Maximise size of tree pit while adequately accommodating
BENEFITS pedestrian movement and property access needs
„„ If designed well, stormwater tree pits could benefit tree „„ Use connected tree pits instead of individual tree pits to
health by increasing the amount of water the tree receives increase root space, tree health and stormwater intake
and reducing the need for manual watering „„ Paving patterns are to be modified to incorporate trees
„„ Improved aesthetics within the footpath as indicated on the standard tree detail
„„ Trees provide habitat for birds and other urban creatures. „„ The design of the pit is crucial to tree health. Stormwater
should be filtered through a suitable soil mixture.
WHEN IS THIS SUITABLE?
MAINTENANCE
Street trees are used all over the city and should be used
wherever pavement exists if subsurface conditions and
„„ Annual mulching
services and utilities allow. „„ Check and replace stakes as required
„„ Weeding if necessary
„„ If tree fails or dies, record death, replace tree.

COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS

Refer to Code of Practice for Land Development C.4.2.5.

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 Part Four: WSUD Measures

STREET TREES

Water Sensitive Urban Design 55

LIVING/GREEN ROOFS
PRIMARY FUNCTION DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
Used to provide treatment and some attenuation capacity. „„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific
basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage
The term green roof means a vegetation covered roof. area in consultation with the relevant agencies
Also known as eco-roof or living roof, a green roof typically „„ A green roof professional should be involved in any
consists of multiple layers, each of which plays an important green roof design team
role in the overall system function. Typically (from bottom „„ Careful structural loading and waterproofing detailing
to top), layers include an insulation layer (optional, depends is needed to avoid leakage into building
on roof type), a waterproof membrane, root barrier, drainage „„ Plant selection to withstand a range of climatic
layer, filter fabric, engineered growing medium or substrate
conditions is vital
and plant material. This green space could be below,
„„ Considerations shall be given to growing medium
at or above grade, but in all cases the plants are not
(substrate), general irrigation and plants
planted in the ‘ground’.
„„ Access is required for maintenance
Flow attenuation is achieved by water stored in the substrate „„ Active drainage is required for the water not used
and then taken up by the plants from where it is returned to by the system
the atmosphere through evapotranspiration. Contaminants are „„ The growing medium is usually a lightweight, custom
removed by filtration through the soil and microbial activity. mixture, composed mostly of expanded stone, volcanic
rock, perlite, with only a 10% to 20% organic content.
BENEFITS
Green roofs, although a higher-cost strategy, can provide MAINTENANCE
a wide range of public and private benefits: „„ Green roofs requires regular maintenance; including
„„ Reduced stormwater runoff and also delay the time manual irrigation during dry periods, weeding, mowing
at which runoff occurs, resulting in decreased stress and pest control
on drainage systems at peak flow periods „„ Annually/routinely inspect and ensure no blockage
„„ Increased green urban space amenity including to drainage.
urban agriculture
COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
„„ Waste diversion – prolonging the life of waterproofing
membranes, reducing associated waste Green roofs generally need building consent and in some
situations resource consent.
„„ Improved air quality and energy efficiency
„„ Noise reduction
„„ Increased biodiversity and act as a stepping stone LIVING ROOF LAYERS
habitat for migrating species
„„ Positive impacts on community health and
Plants
psychological well-being
Growing medium
„„ Educational opportunities.
Filter fabric
WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE? Drainage/storage layer
New developments and existing buildings with flat Insulation
roofs following an engineer’s confirmation that the
Waterproof membrane
loading and system proposed is viable.
Protection board

Roof deck
56 Wellington City Council
 Part Four: WSUD Measures

GREEN WALLS
PRIMARY FUNCTION WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE?
Used to provide some treatment and detention capacity. Green walls may be used for a wide variety of projects
– both new-build and refurbishment for a variety of building
A green wall can be simply described as a vegetated
types, from small garden projects to large industrial and
vertical surface. However the term encompasses two
commercial developments.
very distinct concepts. Green facades are created by vines
and climbing plants rooted in soil or containers, growing DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
upwards or cascading down, and require a structure „„ Building code and structural engineering requirements
to maintain their position, develop growth, and survive need thorough consideration
through seasonal exposures. The term ‘living wall’ „„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific
refers to a newly developed technology that relies on basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage
a prefabricated modular or monolithic vertical soil or area in consultation with the relevant agencies
hydroponic system to root plants on a vertical plane. „„ Careful structural loading and waterproofing is needed
to avoid leakage into building
BENEFITS OF GREEN WALLS
„„ Wind exposure, sun orientation, water availability and
„„ Enhance a building’s appearance, disguise a car
microclimates to determine suitable plant selection.
park, refresh a tired façade or add colour and texture
to a complete wall or section MAINTENANCE
„„ Prevents graffiti „„ Ensure the irrigation system works properly – so it does
„„ Water-recycling – help collect and filter stormwater not under-water or over-water the plants
and/or grey water for household use or irrigation purposes „„ Plants must be occasionally pruned, fertilised, and weeded
„„ Integration with ground-level raingardens as growing if necessary and sometimes will have to be replaced.
medium with vertical vegetation
„„ Potential for urban agriculture COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
„„ Improved air quality and energy efficiency Green walls may need building consent and, in some
„„ Noise reduction situations, resource consent.
„„ Increased biodiversity and number of habitats and
act as a stepping stone habitat for migrating species
„„ Positive impacts on community health and PROFILE VIEW
psychological wellbeing
„„ Educational opportunities.
Drip or irrigation system

GREEN WALL VICTORIA UNIVERSITY WELLINGTON

Growing medium

Plants

Support board

Water Sensitive Urban Design 57

SWALES
PRIMARY FUNCTION „„ Swales must have dense grass or vegetation coverage
to reduce erosion potential and aid infiltration
Moderate treatment and attenuation benefits.
„„ Infiltration to ground can occur where proven soakage
A vegetated channel that helps filter stormwater and enables capability is available. Liner and subsoil drainage to be
it to infiltrate into the soil or disposal into the stormwater provided if this is not possible.
system. Swales generally work best on flat land or on gentle
slopes that allow the plants to have more time to influence MAINTENANCE
the water. Swales can either be simple vegetated systems „„ Periodic inspection for erosion and formation of gullies
or constructed with a specified filter media, underdrains and removal of sediment build-up and debris from the
and selected plants (bio-swale). bottom of channel
„„ Grass-lined swales should be mowed regularly
BENEFITS „„ Swales need periodical thinning out of vegetation
„„ Add visual interest to a site or to screen unsightly views „„ Inspections after storm events to verify that they
„„ Help manage and improve water quality on-site are working as intended.
„„ A low cost strategy (capital cost only) relative to
traditional management practices COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
„„ Habitat creation.
Ascertain resource requirements for individual sites.

WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE? SWALE PLAN VIEW

Swales are able to tolerate low levels of pollutants from
vehicles and urban land uses, so are viable beside footpaths, Inflow
roadways, within car parks, open spaces or sportsfields
and can be adapted for most residential, commercial and
industrial land uses. They should not be used on steep
slopes (greater than 5%) and may be difficult to place
in very urban settings due to space requirements and
constraints from multiple vehicle crossings.

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS Wetland

„„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific shrubs

basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage

area in consultation with relevant agencies Moisture
tolerant plants
„„ Careful consideration must be given to overflow control,
plant species, subsurface conditions and infiltration rates
„„ Fortify the entry edge to protect against erosion
from inflow
Inflow
„„ Should be at least 3m from building foundations
„„ Where swales border footpaths the design shall cater
for pedestrian safety
„„ Consider the location of underground utility infrastructure
including sewers and water mains

58 Wellington City Council Outflow

 Part Four: WSUD Measures

PERMEABLE/POROUS PAVING
PRIMARY FUNCTION MAINTENANCE
Provides treatment. Annually inspect and repair paving as required.

Porous paving is designed to facilitate infiltration of surface

COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
runoff water into the underlying subsoil. This helps reduce
stormwater runoff from a site and minimise the export of Ascertain resource consent requirements and design
sediments and pollutants from the site. parameters for relevant agencies.

Different types are available such as:

JOHNSONVILLE
„„ Porous concrete
„„ Porous asphalt
„„ Plastic modular systems
„„ Interlocking concrete paving blocks
(including modular and lattice blocks).

BENEFITS
„„ Reduces the amount of land needed for other integrated
stormwater management measures
„„ Increases groundwater recharge and reduces pollutants
in stormwater runoff. CONCRETE PAVERS POROUS CONCRETE

WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE?

Best used in residential situations, primarily parking areas,
or low-volume roadways or driveways where vehicle use is
low and there are low sediment loads that could reduce the
porosity over time.

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

„„ Should be avoided in areas subject to heavy traffic
movement and turning circles (i.e. for waste
POROUS ASPHALT
collection trucks)
„„ Particular care is needed in the design of the pavement
foundations with respect to traffic loads, the nature of
the subgrade and pavement durability
„„ Careful consideration must be given to subsurface
conditions and infiltration rates
„„ There are potentially significant issues with respect to
blinding of the surfaces of permeable pavements with
fine material. This can, in some situations, be prevented
or minimised by ongoing maintenance, for example using
suction devices.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 59

DETENTION TANKS/PIPES
PRIMARY FUNCTION „„ A dead storage volume is required at bottom of the tank
for sediment build up – the outlet is to be located at least
Attenuation.
100mm above the base of the tank and must be located
Detention tanks, or oversized pipes, within a public or so that it can easily be accessed for inspection and
private stormwater network temporarily store rain water maintenance. The outlet must be able to gravity drain
from any impervious surfaces. They slowly release the into the intended stormwater network
water through a smaller pipe into the stormwater system. „„ Access must be provided for maintenance
This storage and slow release of the rainwater reduces „„ Inlets from paved areas require standard baffled sumps
peak stormwater flows and the impacts on downstream to trap sediment
pipe networks and/or on streams. „„ Tanks must be located so as not to adversely affect
building foundations.
BENEFITS
„„ They can be used for managing peak flows from both MAINTENANCE
roof areas and paved areas „„ Inspect and clean sumps and tank for sludge/sediment
„„ Collected water can be filtered and stored to be used build up
for landscape irrigation. „„ Inspect tank structural integrity and pipework by
qualified professionals.
WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE?
Detention tanks or pipes are useful where there is a COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
lack of capacity in the downstream stormwater system, These assets are constructed to the Council’s design
where flooding may be a problem, and/or to protect against compliance standards.
stream erosion. They help manage runoff where surface
space is constrained and reduce the need for ponding RAIN WATER COLLECTED FROM ROOF OR PAVED AREAS
within vegetated WSUD elements.

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

„„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific
Inflow Oversized pipes and/or tanks
basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage
area in consultation with the relevant agencies.
Consideration must be given to overflow control
„„ A 1 in 10 year rain event with a time for concentration
(Tc) of 20 minutes shall be used to determine runoff Orifice
Detention discharge
and detention volumes at reduced
„„ The tank size will depend on the area that requires rate.
mitigation and the proportion of the impervious area
to be drained. About 3m3 of storage for every 100m2
of catchment area is recommended
„„ The design event duration for a proposed detention
structure should be based on the time for concentration
of the public stormwater above the point of connection Stormwater system
with the proposed detention structure

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 Part Four: WSUD Measures

PONDS
PRIMARY FUNCTION „„ Fortify the entry edge to protect against erosion
from inflow
Limited treatment with significant attenuation benefits.
„„ Outlet designed to minimise downstream scour
A stormwater pond is an artificial pond designed to collect and bank erosion
and retain stormwater. The function of the pond is to contain „„ Access for maintenance and cleaning
flood flows and release water slowly. This slow release „„ Provide for fish passage where necessary.
mitigates the size and intensity of flooding on downstream
receiving waters. The removal of contaminants occurs MAINTENANCE
through a settling process. „„ Sediment forebay, pond and pond outflow structures
must be kept accessible for operation and
BENEFITS maintenance purposes
„„ Help manage stormwater volumes and improve „„ Monitor sediment accumulations and remove sediment
water quality when the pond volume has reduced significantly or the
„„ Provide habitat for a very diverse wildlife population pond becomes eutrophic
and plant community „„ Plants must be occasionally pruned, weeded and
„„ Attractive landscaping feature sometimes need to be replaced
„„ Benches, tracks and bird blinds enhance amenities „„ Inspect for structural damage-repair undercut or
for a variety for users. eroded areas
„„ Inspect after heavy rainfall to verify that they are
WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE? working as intended.
Usually appropriate for very large sites or multi
lot developments. COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
Ascertain resource and building consent requirements for
DESIGN AND INSTALLATION individual sites, as certain areas and different sizes of ponds
„„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific may require approaches.
basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage
area, taking into account the characteristics of the PLAN VIEW
catchment, in consultation with the relevant agencies
„„ Careful consideration must be given to overflow control,
plant species, subsurface conditions and infiltration rates
„„ Calculate extent of design storm rainfall to be stored in
the pond and provide overflow capability for exceptional
rain events
„„ All ponds require a sediment forebay for
maintenance access
„„ Design the contours of a pond to eliminate drop
offs and other safety hazards
„„ Pond linings shall be determined based on
geotechnical investigations

Water Sensitive Urban Design 61

WETLANDS
PRIMARY FUNCTION BENEFITS
Water treatment and attenuation. „„ Help moderate stormwater volumes and improve
water quality
Constructed wetlands are designed to perform within „„ Easily integrated with regional flood mitigation when
a highly modified hydrologic regime and provide water constructed in the base of ponds
treatment through a complex mix of physical, chemical „„ Can be designed as naturalistic or highly contemporary
and biogeochemical processes. As runoff flows through
landscape features
the wetland, stormwater pollutants are removed through
„„ Provide habitat for a very diverse wildlife population
settling, filtering, and uptake by vegetation. Biofilms which
and plant community
establish on the stems and roots of specific vegetation
„„ Attractive landscaping feature
trap fine colloidal particles and ‘flock’ these to the wetland
„„ Benches, tracks and bird blinds enhance amenities
substrate soils. Wetlands temporarily store stormwater
for a variety for users.
runoff in shallow pools that support emergent and riparian
vegetation. They also provide food or shelter for wildlife. WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE?
Constructed wetlands are commonly used for large The are best on larger sites, generally over 1 hectare.
development projects such as greenfield developments,
golf courses, business parks and industrial sites. These
wetlands may be designed as part of an integrated drainage
system which may include site-wide distributed treatment,
storage for re-use and integrated landscape design.

62 Wellington City Council

 Part Five: WSUD Selection

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS MAINTENANCE

„„ Design details should be determined on a site specific „„ Sediment forebay, inflow and outflow structures must
basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage be kept accessible for operation and maintenance
area in consultation with the relevant agencies „„ Monitor sediment accumulations, and remove sediment
„„ Careful consideration must be given to overflow control, when the forebay reaches pre-determined accumulation
plant species (and density), subsurface conditions and „„ Plant maintenance, including weed control
details for lining „„ Inspect for structural damage – repair undercut
„„ Wetlands must be constructed with variable bathymetry or eroded areas.
to support a diverse range of emergent and submerged
macrophytes COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
„„ At least 80% vegetation cover must be achieved
Ascertain resource and building consent requirements
(typically <350mm permanent planting depth for planting)
for individual sites.
„„ Minimum 250mm extended detention should be provided
to increase treatment volume and moderate flows
„„ The contributing drainage area should generally
be greater than 4 hectares
„„ Safety ledges needed adjacent to permanent pool
areas deeper than 1m
„„ Inflow energy dispersion is required to protect
against erosion
„„ A sediment forebay shall be used to protect macrophyte
zones and facilitate settlement of coarser sediments.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 63

DEPRESSION STORAGE
PRIMARY FUNCTION DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
Attenuation capacity and some treatment. „„ Design details should be determined on a site-specific
basis for the design storm and extent of the drainage
Depression storage is a natural or artificial shallow area in consultation with the relevant agencies
grass-lined area capable of detaining runoff, such „„ Careful consideration must be given to hydraulics
as a depression in a park or a low lying edge of a car (inlet, overflow and outlet), subsurface conditions,
park to provide temporary storage to attenuate runoff. infiltration rates (to avoid permanently waterlogged
Some pollutants can be removed from stormwater soils) and maintenance
by filtration through the grass and soil. Stormwater „„ The depression basin shall be designed to pond
disposal is via a controlled outlet to regulate discharges. water, when a pre-determined threshold is exceeded,
and allow the release of the water via a suitably
BENEFITS sized outlet structure
„„ Simple to construct with ability to integrate with „„ Fortify the entry edge to protect against erosion
park setting from inflow
„„ Can be designed to only engage infrequently „„ Where the depression basin borders footpaths the
(>1 in 1 year event) so area is useable at other times design shall cater for pedestrian safety
„„ Can incorporate seating or other furnishings to encourage „„ The basin can be planted with large vegetation (such as
social and recreational activities flax and some trees) as long as allowance is made for the
„„ Adopting stormwater capturing on a wide-scale basis impact on storage volumes and maintenance access for
could reduce stormwater volumes entering the sewer hydraulic structures.
system during storms.
MAINTENANCE
WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE? „„ The maintenance requirements for grass channels
and depression basins are relatively minimal
Do not site where they would create a flood risk to adjacent
„„ Inspect the depressions after significant rainfall
buildings/properties or an unacceptable risk to public safety
„„ After vegetation is established, mow it, remove litter,
(i.e. immediately adjacent to playground).
and perform spot vegetation repair
„„ Ensure water flow into the depression is unobstructed.

COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS

Ascertain resource consent requirements for individual sites.
GRASSED DEPRESSION
Subgrade capacity Grass or
and depth can vary Filter media groundcover
filter strip

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 Part Four: WSUD Measures

RIPARIAN BUFFER
PRIMARY FUNCTION „„ Attractive landscaping feature
„„ Benches, tracks and bird blinds enhance amenities
Minor treatment and attenuation.
for a variety for users
Riparian buffers along stream edges protect water quality „„ Can be integrated with structural works to stabilise
by filtering out sediments and pollutants. They can vary stream edges such as gabion walls
in width from a minimum of 2m. The width of the riparian „„ Can be undertaken in collaboration with community
zone depends on the size of the stream and its flow groups and/or schools.
characteristics although other factors such as property
boundaries, slope, soils and amount of vegetation must WHEN ARE THEY SUITABLE?
be considered.
Existing riparian edges on all remaining waterways should
The primary function of riparian buffers is to physically be retained or enhanced where possible.
protect and separate a stream or wetland from edge
disturbance or encroachment. If properly protected and GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
designed, a buffer can provide stormwater management „„ Protective planting may be used to improve and
and act as an overflow zone during floods, sustaining the stabilise a stream bank as well as prevent gully erosion
integrity of stream ecosystems and associated riparian and sedimentation
habitats. Technically, aquatic buffers are one type of „„ Plantsshould represent the stream typology and location
conservation area that function as an integral part of the „„ Consider natural geomorphology of stream and be
aquatic ecosystem and can also function as part of an mindful of challenges with temporarily removing existing
urban habitat. weed species.

BENEFITS MAINTENANCE
„„ Protect water quality and allow flood flow attenuation „„ Plant maintenance, including weed control
„„ Provide shading of waterways „„ Inspect for damage – repair undercut or eroded areas.
„„ Provide habitat for a very diverse wildlife population
and plant community
COUNCIL INSPECTIONS AND APPROVALS
„„ Connect community with ‘natural’ waterway through
Ascertain resource consent requirements for individual sites.
restoration activity

PROFILE VIEW

Riparian buffer Low water level Mean water level High flow level

Water Sensitive Urban Design 65

ALL ABOARD THE TREATMENT TRAIN

Collection Treatment Discharge

(interception, infiltration, (filter, biological uptake, separation) (overflow)
attenuation, conveyance)

These measures are components of a ‘treatment train’. The selection of WSUD measures needs to be guided by site
Whether natural, constructed or hybridised components, conditions, development type and pollutants. The design
the sequence of measures rely on each other for input and and size of the system is guided by quantity of rainfall
discharge, collectively treating stormwater for the needs and available site area. In designing a treatment train,
of a particular environment. The ‘treatment train’ and each with WSUD elements in series, designers must consider
design measure within it require site-specific design. the interactions between the different treatment types and
the subsequent impact on sizing. For example rain gardens
The Council seeks to promote WSUD concepts in stormwater
are not suited downstream of a constructed wetland but
management to both improve water quality and mitigate
can be used for pre-treatment upstream of the wetland.
peak runoff volumes.

Sequencing of components can combine natural and urban TREATMENT TRAIN EXAMPLES:
systems of treatment and conveyance to progressively Waitangi Park includes a good example of a treatment train.
remove contaminants and reduce volume. Through site This includes:
design and spatial planning of existing natural features
„„ Culvert
and/or introduced stormwater control, features can be
incorporated to create a WSUD ‘treatment train’ approach.
„„ Subsurface wetland
This leads to water-quantity and water-quality benefits „„ Flow-through planter
as well as benefits to recreation and open space and „„ Constructed wetland
ecological value. „„ Pond
„„ Irrigation
A ‘treatment train’ may be required to deal with a variety
„„ Discharge.
of pollutants e.g. sediments and heavy metals.

66 Wellington City Council

PART FIVE:
WSUD SELECTION

Water Sensitive Urban Design 67

A generic process for selection and design of WSUD The process follows logical progression based on parameters
stormwater treatment devices is shown below. applicable to Wellington i.e. slope and soakage. It identifies
The matrix is from the San Francisco Stormwater Design early on whether or not on site soakage is a viable option.
Guidelines and is helpful in establishing the selection
of WSUD measures based on site characteristics.

DECISION TREE

YES YES Install cistern alone

Estimate demand
or with other BMPs

Is there a use for Is demand

stormwater greater than
at or near the site? target volume?

NO
Install cistern and select
NO
additional measures

NO NO Do not use:
Infiltration measures

Is infiltration feasible? Is there adequate depth to

groundwater if undrained?

YES
YES Include
underdrain/liner

Do not use:
YES NO Pervious pavement
infiltration trench/basin
wet pond/wetlands
vegetated swale
Is the slope >10%? Can the site be terraced?

YES
NO Include
underdrain/liner

YES NO Do not use:

vegetated swale
buffer strips

Is the slope 5–10%? Can the site be terraced?

YES
NO Include
underdrain/liner

All other measures

are available

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 Part Five: WSUD Selection

BENEFITS
WSUD should, where practicable, be used within the context Multi-value benefits from investments are now expected
of integrated catchment and asset management plans to: and becoming de rigeur. We need to make decisions at the
„„ Protect or enhance water quality and preserve natural macro scale to provide WSUD on the back of other major
habitat and ecosystems investment. Utilisation of WSUD and nature’s ecosystem
„„ Mimic natural drainage regimes services will yield far greater benefits than single-focused
projects. For example, roading projects can incorporate
„„ Adopt more sustainable forms of development
WSUD elements and bring benefits to other interests
„„ Reduce the amount and form of hard infrastructure
– urban design, flood management and biodiversity to
and impervious surfaces
name but a few.
„„ Improve visual and physical amenity values.
In New York a WSUD approach that integrates swales
This guide can demonstrate the benefits of WSUD. It can and green roofs is being used as an alternative approach
also point to case studies for making the case for WSUD. in managing rain-related pollution. The city is directing
However it cannot provide a formula that calculates the investments in WSUD to optimise the existing piped
values relating to a particular project. It may be possible system and reduce flow volumes into its combined
to make a value transfer, in which values are inferred sewer system. This project is expected to save about
from similar cases. Values can be environmental, $1.5 billion in treatment and infrastructure costs over
social or economic. 20 years. For billions of dollars less than the cost of
Most traditional grey infrastructure has a single function. the traditional tanks and pipes that are useful only when
Green infrastructure, by contrast, is multi-functional. it rains, New York is benefiting from improved water
As well as reducing pressure on the sewer network and air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions,
(reducing sewer overflows to the sea) and filtering increased property values, and beautified communities.
out pollutants from stormwater, WSUD can also Compared with the performance of grey infrastructure
provide ecosystem services such as bringing more approaches, green infrastructure has reduced:
of our native flora and fauna into the heart of the city,
reducing impervious areas, creating shade, improving the
„„ Built capital (equipment, installation) costs
streetscape and storage of carbon in the trees and soil. „„ Operation costs
„„ Land acquisition costs
The City of Philadelphia is pursuing a WSUD approach to „„ Repair and maintenance costs
minimise sewer overflows – this includes retrofits on existing „„ External costs (off-site costs imposed on others)
roofs and converting roads to make them more permeable.
„„ Infrastructure replacement costs (potential for longer
Such an approach is expected to reduce annual sewer
life of investment).
overflows by nearly 8 billion gallons per year – at a cost of
billions less than the more traditional approach of building
underground storage tunnels. Philadelphia has estimated
that the cost of a WSUD approach is $US3 billion compared
to $US100 billion for a piped solution.

In Seattle, replacing traditional asphalt streets with

permeable pavement and green infrastructure has cut
paving budgets nearly in half.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 69

HOW THIS GUIDE RELATES TO OTHER DOCUMENTS
There is national evidence that environmental standards Fresh Water:
are increasing. Stormwater quality is an aspect that is „„ Policy 40: Safeguarding aquatic ecosystem health
attracting increasing regulatory attention in New Zealand in water bodies – consideration
in terms of compliance with legislation and increasing „„ Policy 42: Minimising contamination in stormwater
community expectations. from development – consideration1
The WSUD guide pre-empts increasing regulatory attention „„ Policy 43: Protecting aquatic ecological function
around water resources. of water bodies – consideration.

The following national and regional policy documents all Indigenous Ecosystems:
make reference to water quality and the way urban runoff „„ Policy 24: Protecting indigenous ecosystems and
is managed; habitats with significant indigenous biodiversity values
„„ National Policy Statement on Freshwater – district and regional plans
Management (2011) „„ Policy 47: Managing effects on indigenous ecosystems
„„ Land and Water Forum third report (2012) and habitats with significant indigenous biodiversity
„„ Freshwater Reform (2013) policy document, values – consideration.
„„ Review of NZS4404 Land development and
subdivision infrastructure (2010) REGIONAL STANDARD FOR WATER SERVICES
„„ Regional Policy Statement for the Wellington Region (2013) (NOVEMBER 2012):
„„ Current Regional Plan review. 4.2.10 Environmental:
The Regional Policy Statement (2013) (RPS) must be given “Downstream impacts to be managed and mitigated against
effect to by regional and district plans and must be given shall include, but not be limited to, changes in peak flow
particular regard to when resource consents are processed. and flooding, erosion, sedimentation and contamination.
It includes objectives, policies and methods which relate Works will be required to address any adverse effect.”
to water quality. The Council’s District Plan will have to be
4.2.11 Low Impact Design:
revised to give effect to the RPS.
“Using low impact design concepts and practices
The RPS direction is to use low impact design-WSUD
enables multiple social, environmental, cultural and
concepts in order to minimise the effects of stormwater.
transport outcomes to coexist through improving the
Specifically this guide supports national, regional and overall design quality, providing amenity, and enhancing
district objectives, policies and standards including: environmental quality and attractiveness of the area.
„„ New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (2010) Alternative approaches to stormwater management,
„„ National Policy Statement for Freshwater including attenuation and/or some disposal on site,
Management (2011) may be encouraged where practical.”
„„ Regional Policy Statement (2013).

Coastal Environment:
„„ Policy 6: Recognising the regional significance of
the Porirua Harbour – district and regional plans
„„ Policy 37: Safeguarding the life-supporting capacity
of coastal ecosystems – consideration.
1 This is a crucial policy for WSUDs and stormwater management
– it is a test that should be used for all plan changes and resource consents.
70 Wellington City Council
 Part Five: WSUD Selection

CODE OF PRACTICE FOR LAND DEVELOPMENT

(WELLINGTON CITY COUNCIL, DECEMBER 2012):
F.4 Stormwater Control:

“The Council seeks to promote low impact design concepts

to stormwater management to both improve water quality
and curb peak runoff volumes.”

WCC PUBLIC SPACE DESIGN POLICY

(WELLINGTON CITY COUNCIL, DECEMBER 2010)
Objective 6: Sustainability/Policy 3:

“Innovative planting projects and water-sensitive urban

design practices will be incorporated in public spaces,
contributing to an ecological sustainable city.”

Studies have identified stormwater contamination sources

and the extent to which they are of concern in Wellington.
It is understood that land use and catchment characteristics
influence stormwater runoff.

The biggest issues of concern for stormwater management

are sediment, runoff volumes and velocity and the inundation
of drainage systems causing sewage overflows.

The objective of the stormwater system is to protect people,

property, public health and the environment from the adverse
effects of stormwater by the safe disposal of rainwater and
associated runoff.

A WSUD system must support these vital functions

while achieving its design objectives, using a selection of
measures depending on catchment conditions and land use.

Many factors influence the design, implementation,

maintenance and cost of individual WSUD measures.
Knowledge regarding the long term operation, maintenance
and success of some designs may also be limited.
The Council must ensure that the solutions are robust.

Water Sensitive Urban Design 71