Duracrete CleanStream and Hynds secondary treatment systems, supplied and installed by a certified installer, for sites where a standard septic tank won’t do.
A standard septic tank separates solids from the liquid, then relies on the soil in the disposal field to finish the job. On a large, flat section with free-draining soil, that works well. Sloping sites, heavy clay, small sections and homes close to streams or the coast often need wastewater treated to a much higher standard before it goes back into the ground.
A secondary treatment system adds extra treatment stages inside the tank, so bacteria break down far more of the waste before the water leaves. The water that comes out is clear, low in odour and much safer for the ground and nearby waterways. We supply and install secondary treatment systems across Northland, and we’re a certified installer for both Duracrete and Hynds.
Your wastewater engineer decides which system your site needs, based on a site assessment and soil tests. The Regional Plan for Northland sets the conditions for on-site wastewater, and several of them favour secondary treatment on difficult sites:
On a tight or sloping section, those differences can decide whether a system fits at all. If your engineer has specified secondary treatment, these rules are usually the reason. We’re happy to talk it through once you have your design.
Both systems finish with a pump that sends the treated water to shallow irrigation lines, usually drip irrigation under topsoil, mulch or bark. Because of that pump, a secondary treatment system needs a power supply, and the power needs to stay on for it to work properly. Any hard-wiring is done by a licensed electrician, and we can arrange one or work with your own.
Every site is different, so we quote each job individually. The main things that affect the price are:
Quotes are free in Whangarei and the surrounding area. For remote Northland sites, we offer a drainage report for $499 + GST, which gives you a clear picture of what’s needed before any work starts. Either way, you’ll know what the job involves before you commit.
Secondary treatment systems need regular servicing by trained technicians. Duracrete requires CleanStream systems to be serviced every 12 months, or every six months where the system handles higher flows, and Hynds recommends a service every six months. Servicing is usually arranged through the manufacturer’s own service agents when you buy the system, and Duracrete has its own team of service technicians.
The Regional Plan for Northland requires on-site systems to be maintained to the manufacturer’s specifications. In Kaipara, the district council’s bylaw also requires aerated systems to be inspected every year. Drainspec installs the system but doesn’t do the servicing, so the service agent looks after that side.
Between services, leave the power on, only flush toilet paper and keep fats, oils and harsh chemicals out of the drains. If the alarm goes off, call your service agent rather than ignoring it. Keeping a record of each service also makes it easy to show the system has been looked after if you ever sell.
Can’t see your question? Call us on 021 0236 9667.
Your wastewater engineer will decide, based on your site, your soil and the Regional Plan’s conditions. It’s required where wastewater is irrigated onto slopes steeper than 10 degrees, and it’s often the best option on small sections, heavy clay or sites close to water. If you already have a design, it will say which system you need.
Yes, an existing septic tank can be upgraded to secondary treatment. Whether that’s the best option depends on the age and condition of your tank and what your wastewater design requires. We can look at your setup and talk you through it.
Yes, and you should leave the power on while you’re away, so the system keeps working as it should. Some Hynds systems also have a holiday setting for homes that are used part-time. Our bach septic page covers this in more detail. Bach septic systems →
No, Drainspec doesn’t offer servicing. The manufacturer’s service agents usually look after that, and it’s normally set up when you buy the system. If a service turns up a problem with the installation, we’ll come back and fix it.
Tell us about your property and what you need, whether it’s a new system, an upgrade or a replacement. If you have a wastewater design or building plans, send them through with a few photos of the site.
We reply to every enquiry within one working day.
021 0236 9667