A new reservoir on top of Mataruahou will double water storage capacity for Napier city. Two new nine million-litre reservoirs, plus room for a third, will be built over the next three years, replacing the ageing 9.5 million-litre Enfield Reservoir and boosting resilience for the city’s growing needs alongside water demand management.
The project includes a new booster pump station, improved water quality monitoring, and robust infrastructure able to withstand shocks and stresses.
Proposed site layout of Mataruahou Reservoirs
Other water supply projects – Water Network Upgrades – Mataruahou and Taradale – will progress alongside the construction of Mataruahou Reservoir, to deliver water from the Awatoto and Taradale borefields to the Mataruahou and Taradale reservoirs (respectively), with a pipe connecting the two reservoirs to enable two-way water transfer, ensuring a resilient and reliable water supply.
History of Mataruahou
Mataruahou holds deep cultural and social significance in Napier’s history. Traditionally, Mataruahou was recognised by local Māori as a place of healing; its elevation, natural spring, sea breezes and outlook believed to uplift the spirit and aid recovery.
Mataruahou became part of the 1851 Ahuriri land sale, influenced partly by the promise of a hospital (built in 1860) to serve both Māori and Pākehā communities. Over time, Mataruahou became not only a medical hub but also a symbol of community resilience, adapting to population growth, disease outbreaks and changing healthcare needs.
What does Mataruahou mean to you?
Share your thoughts on how we can honour this place and shape what belongs on Mataruahou next to the new water reservoir. (max 140 characters).
31 March, 2026
Ash says:
Lots of space for off leash dog walking as it is very popular for this. We just love it up there enjoying the views.
31 March, 2026
Deidre says:
Begin by showing respect for the beauty & ambience of the area by landscaping thoughtfully including the sadly neglected roundabout.
31 March, 2026
No ugly houses. says:
It's good that it's being used for the community, though morally it should be returned to the Iwi.
Please, some trees around the tanks.
31 March, 2026
AP says:
Based on the 1 image I’ve been able to find that shows what an eyesore these massive tanks will be, I can see no means of honour or disguise
31 March, 2026
Worried says:
A beautiful place to remember the births of many babies & the care of the sick & dying.
Sad to have tanks instead of a lovely park.
19 March, 2026
Worried says:
Why are the tanks being located so close to the roudabout & above alot of houses? surely a risk to property & lives if the tank breaks ?
17 March, 2026
Verb8m says:
Here’s an idea. Build a hospital there. We sure so need one.
15 March, 2026
Chey says:
Is it possible to plant Harakeke cultivars so that weavers are able to access and harvest around Napier
10 March, 2026
Anon says:
Embed the tanks within a natural reserve that inspires nature, the view, culture, recreation and fitness.
6 March, 2026
Anon says:
If not buried, then please create a walking track around the tanks. Its such a lovely view and place for a stroll. Screening tanks is NB!
28 February, 2026
JENNIEP says:
The site has significance for me as a now 2+ year resident, who lived here as a child and was a patient in the hospital at the age of 2.
25 February, 2026
Anon says:
Great if they are buried as others have suggested. Landscape to allow some fitness or sport activity. No dogs off leashes please.
