Page:Municipal Handbook of Auckland 1922.djvu/259



When the necessity for drainage facilities first presented itself to the inhabitants of Auckland and the suburban areas, it was, of course, impracticable to proceed with extensive works. The authorities concerned therefore adopted the simple method of constructing sewers alongside the natural watercourses with the outlets discharging into the harbour. These sewer outlets were increased in number from time to time with the growth of the City and expansion of its suburbs, until it became apparent that some improved method of sewage disposal should be adopted.

As early as 1878, Mr. W. Clark, M. Inst. C.E., of London, visited Auckland for the purpose of reporting on the main drainage of the City and certain suburbs. In his report to the City Council he recommended the construction of intercepting sewers, pumping stations, septic tanks and filters with an outfall in St. George's Bay and provision for an extension to Hobson Bay if occasion should require. No action was taken however with regard to these recommendations.

In 1902 Mr. A. A. Wrigg, City Engineer, was instructed by the City Council to report on the drainage of the City. He advised that the method, then existing, of discharging sewage from the many outlets into the harbour could be rendered quite sanitary by the extension of the sewers to low water mark.