| 33 T T Aimee Wilson Balclutha pipe upgrade poses special challenges The new pipe alignment has been designed around the dwellings to allow for servicing the existing dwellings with stormwater runoffs. Clutha District Council: Springfield Water REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT An ambitious project is underway in Balclutha to replace aging stormwater pipes that have collapsed in some places underneath houses and caused unnecessary flooding. The Clutha District Council contracted Rutter Civil to fix the problem — the $476,000 project started in November 2025 and is expected to be finished at the end of February 2026. Group Manager Infrastructure Strategy and Delivery Donna McArthur said the contractor has also encountered approximately 60 metres of rock underground, which they will need to break up to enable the pipe laying to continue. The replacement of the existing 225mm diameter earthenware stormwater pipe, which is currently situated in extremely poor conditions, has caused restrictions of flows and resulted in surcharging and overland flows through private properties. The new pipe alignment has been designed around the dwellings to allow for servicing the existing dwellings with stormwater runoffs. A 375mm diameter pipeline captures upstream runoffs along Springfield Street where the work is being done, and discharges to two adjoining streets. Some of it is also being discharged to the creek at the lower end of the street, where the new stormwater mains will flow once completed. “The design of the new storm water main accounts for private properties affected and climate change projections have also been included,” Project Manager, John Eteuati, said. The objective of the project is to address the flooding issues at the lower end of the properties. “This new main will capture all the runoffs from each dwelling and discharge the flows directly into the creek at the lower end, hence addressing the issue at hand.” George Rutter of Rutter Civil said this is a particularly complex project because the work is being carried out across nine separate private residential properties, all with very tight access constraints. “We’re working around and modifying existing houses, retaining walls, elevation changes, established trees and other structures, while maintaining services and minimising disruption to homeowners. “Much of the work is taking place in confined spaces, which requires careful planning and close communication with all stakeholders.” One of the key technical challenges on this project has been the presence of underlying greywacke rock encountered during excavation. While rock is not uncommon in parts of Balclutha, its extent across the site adds significant complexity, particularly given access restrictions that limit Rutter Civil to a maximum 2.7-tonne excavator. George said this has required a controlled and methodical excavation approach. The existing 225mm earthenware pipe has failed over time due to root ingress, silting, which made opportunities for inspection and maintenance challenging. “These factors combined to restrict flows, leading to surcharging and overland flooding through private properties.” Rutter Civil is pleased to be working alongside Clutha District Council on this project and looks forward to its successful completion, delivering a durable and resilient stormwater solution for the community. 027 943 2423 | www.ruttercivil.nz | CIVIL CONSTRUCTION COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL EARTHWORKS 3 WATERS CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE LAND DEVELOPMENT & SUBDIVISIONS RURAL Based in South Otago, Rutter Civil Limited is a civil construction business built on practical experience, strong relationships and steady, organic growth. Founder George Rutter established the company in 2022 as an owner/operator after working as a project engineer on complex Three Waters infrastructure projects. While that experience exposed him to large-scale, high-speci cation construction, George saw an opportunity to build a business that combined technical capability with a more hands-on, relationship-driven approach. Rutter Civil’s point of difference lies in its involvement on the ground. George remains actively engaged in day-to-day operations, working alongside his team on site and maintaining over-sight from planning through to completion. Rather than specialising in niche or highly restrictive work, the company focuses on delivering reliable, ef cient solutions across a broad range of civil projects often taking on jobs that require adaptability, problem-solving and close coordination with clients. Raised on a small sheep and beef farm south of Balclutha, George developed a A Hands-On Approach to Civil Construction strong work ethic and a practical mindset from an early age. He later completed a Diploma in Civil Engineering, combining hands-on experience with for-mal training. Alongside this, a family background in real estate sales has shaped the way Rutter Civil operates, with an emphasis on clear communication, trust and delivering positive outcomes. While the Clutha District remains the company’s home base, Rutter Civil’s services extend throughout Otago and further a eld when required. The business works across residential, rural, commercial and municipal sectors, delivering earthworks, Three Waters infrastructure, land development and rural services. The variety of work is a de ning feature of the company and re ects its ability to operate across different environments and conditions. What George is most proud of is the reputation the business has built through consistent de-livery and strong values. Rutter Civil has grown organically through repeat work and referrals, supported by investment in skilled people and modern equipment. The company continues to position itself as a long-term partner rather than simply a contractor, focused on delivering durable, t-for-purpose infrastructure that provides lasting value for clients and communities.
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