LB White’s Critical Role in Wellington’s Tunnels

Keeping State Highway 1 Moving

Most people drive through Wellington’s tunnels without a second thought. But behind the scenes, there’s essential compliance work happening every year to ensure those tunnels stay open, and the public water supply stays protected.

LB White plays a key role in maintaining the backflow prevention systems in three of Wellington’s major State Highway 1 tunnels:

• Mount Victoria Tunnel
• Arras Tunnel
• Terrace Tunnel

If these backflow systems fail compliance, the tunnels cannot legally operate. That means potential closure, something no one wants on one of the country’s busiest transport routes.

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What’s Being Protected?

Inside each tunnel are fire sprinkler systems designed to activate immediately in the event of a fire. These systems are critical for public safety.

However, sprinkler systems are connected to the public water supply. Without properly functioning backflow prevention devices, there’s a risk that contaminated water from inside the tunnel system could reverse flow and enter the mains during a pressure drop.

Backflow prevention devices stop that from happening. They ensure water only flows one way, protecting the wider community’s drinking water.

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Night-Time Testing, Once a Year

Because these are high-traffic tunnels, testing can’t just happen during the day.

Once per year, LB White’s team goes in at night to test and certify approximately 10 backflow devices across the three tunnels. Each device is carefully checked to ensure it meets compliance standards. If repairs are required, they’re carried out promptly to maintain certification and keep everything operational.

It’s detailed, technical work, done quietly, often while the city sleeps.

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The Technician Behind the Work

Fadi has been the primary backflow technician overseeing this work for the past several years. His role involves testing, certifying, and repairing devices where required — ensuring everything meets strict compliance standards.

It’s a responsibility that carries real weight. If a device doesn’t pass, it’s not just paperwork, it affects critical infrastructure.

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Infrastructure You Don’t See, But Rely On

This is the kind of work most people never notice. There’s no ribbon-cutting, no big announcement. Just consistent, skilled technical maintenance that keeps Wellington moving and keeps the public water supply protected.

And that’s exactly how it should be.