Top Drainage Services in Wellington – Trusted Providers and Cost Guide
Our guide to Wellington's best drainage services includes trusted providers, essential tips, and cost estimates.
Updated 04 November 2025
Summary:
Our guide covers:
Know This First: Understanding Drainage Systems
- Professional drainage services are crucial for preventing water damage, foundation issues, and health hazards from sewage backups. Wellington's hilly terrain, high rainfall, and aging infrastructure make proper drainage maintenance essential. From blocked drains to stormwater system failures, drainage problems can escalate quickly without professional intervention.
- There are many reputable drainage specialists to choose from in Wellington; this guide will help you identify the right service for your needs.
Our guide covers:
- Types of Drainage Services
- How Much Do Drainage Services Cost?
- How Do I Pay a Drainage Service Provider?
- How Can I Get the Best Drainage Service Rates?
- Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Drainage Service Provider
- Top Wellington Drainage Service Providers Available Right Now
- Frequently asked questions
Know This First: Understanding Drainage Systems
- Every Wellington property runs two separate pipe networks - one carries rainwater off your roof and driveway (stormwater), the other takes everything from your loo, shower, and kitchen sink (wastewater). Different problems need different fixes, and while you might fancy clearing that blocked sink yourself, the pros turn up with cameras that snake through pipes, water jets that blast at 5000 PSI, and gear that won't crack your hundred-year-old clay pipes like your hardware store drain snake might.
- Here's what really matters: drainage contractors know Wellington Council's rules inside out and can tell you straight away if that backed-up mess is your problem to pay for (private pipes on your property) or the council's headache (public pipes under the road). Getting this wrong means arguing with council for months while your drains keep playing up.
MoneyHub's Top Trusted Wellington Drainage Specialist
- Our research identified the leading drainage specialists in Wellington who consistently deliver exceptional results for their clients.
- We recommend contacting Drainage Control NZ — our top-rated drainage specialist with proven reviews and a strong record of delivering reliable solutions for Wellington property owners.
- The best way to start your project is by calling their team directly; this allows you to discuss your drainage needs and find the most effective solution for your property.
Types of Drainage Services
Emergency Blockage Clearing
- Urgent response for blocked toilets, overflowing drains, and sewage backups. Most Wellington providers offer 24/7 emergency services with response times under 2 hours.
- Camera inspections identify blockages, tree root intrusion, pipe damage, and structural issues without excavation. Essential for pre-purchase inspections and diagnosing recurring problems.
- Removes stubborn blockages, grease buildup, and tree roots using pressurised water streams up to 5000 PSI. More effective and less damaging than mechanical clearing.
- From minor crack repairs to full pipe relining without excavation. Modern trenchless technology can restore damaged pipes with minimal disruption to your property.
- Design and installation of soakage systems, detention tanks, and surface water management solutions. Particularly important for Wellington's steep sections and new subdivisions.
- Regularly scheduled cleaning and inspections to prevent costly emergencies. Recommended for commercial properties and homes with known drainage vulnerabilities.
How Much Do Drainage Services Cost?
The bill for fixing your drains depends on what's gone wrong, when you need help, and which tools the tradies need to bring. Wellington properties cop extra charges because getting equipment up those hills and through narrow sections isn't exactly straightforward.
Typical Cost Ranges (including GST):
Factors Affecting Drainage Service Costs:
Typical Cost Ranges (including GST):
- Basic Drain Unblocking: $180 - $400 Standard residential blockage clearing during business hours using basic equipment.
- CCTV Inspection: $350 - $650 Comprehensive camera inspection with written report and video footage. Pre-purchase inspections may cost more.
- High-Pressure Water Jetting: $400 - $800 For stubborn blockages requiring specialist equipment. Complex root intrusions may exceed this range.
- Emergency Callouts: $300 - $600 base fee After-hours and weekend rates typically include callout fees plus hourly rates of $150-$250.
- Drain Repairs: $500 - $5,000+ Minor repairs start around $500, while major relining projects can exceed $10,000 depending on pipe length and access.
- Stormwater Systems: $2,000 - $15,000+ New soakage pits from $2,000, comprehensive stormwater solutions for larger properties can exceed $15,000.
Factors Affecting Drainage Service Costs:
- Location and Access: Wellington's steep terrain and narrow sections can require additional equipment or manual handling, increasing costs by 20-40%.
- Problem Severity: Simple blockages cost less than tree root intrusions or collapsed pipes. Multiple blockage points require more time and resources.
- Time of Service: After-hours emergency rates typically add 50-100% to standard pricing. Weekend and public holiday rates are highest.
- Equipment Required: Basic drain snakes cost less than CCTV equipment or high-pressure jetters. Excavation equipment for major repairs significantly increases costs.
- Council Compliance: Work requiring council permits or inspections adds administrative costs and potential delays.
How Do I Pay a Drainage Service Provider?
Most Wellington drainage services accept:
- Direct Credit (internet banking) – most common for larger jobs
- Credit/Debit Card – may include surcharge of 2-3%
- On-site EFTPOS
- Cash with invoice for smaller jobs
- Payment plans for major repairs (through finance partners)
How Can I Get the Best Drainage Service Rates?
- Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance costs less than emergency repairs. Annual inspections can identify issues before they become expensive problems.
- Multiple Quotes: Obtain at least three quotes for non-emergency work. Ensure quotes include all equipment, labour, and disposal costs.
- Bundle Services: Many drainage companies offer property maintenance packages combining gutter cleaning, drainage maintenance, and septic servicing.
- Off-Peak Scheduling: Non-urgent work during quiet periods (winter months) often attracts discounts of 10-20%.
- Insurance Claims: Check if your home insurance covers drainage issues. Some policies include emergency callout coverage.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Drainage Service Provider
Technical Capabilities:
- What diagnostic equipment do you use?
- Can you provide CCTV footage of the problem?
- Do you offer trenchless repair options?
- Are you qualified for both stormwater and wastewater systems?
- What warranty do you provide on work?
- Do you guarantee no damage to property?
- What happens if the problem isn't fully resolved?
- What's included in your quoted price?
- Do you handle council permits if required?
- Can you provide references from similar jobs?
- What's your response time for emergencies?
- Do you offer maintenance contracts?
MoneyHub's Top Trusted Wellington Drainage Specialist
- Our research identified the leading drainage specialists in Wellington who consistently deliver exceptional results for their clients.
- We recommend contacting Drainage Control NZ — our top-rated drainage specialist with proven reviews and a strong record of delivering reliable solutions for Wellington property owners.
- The best way to start your project is by calling their team directly; this allows you to discuss your drainage needs and find the most effective solution for your property.
The Best Wellington Drainage Service Providers Available Right Now:
Our list below, which is in no particular order, covers drainage specialists in Wellington City, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, and the Kapiti Coast. We have selected these based on their history of longstanding service within the Wellington region, emergency response capabilities, technical expertise, and data extracted from internet reviews on Google Business, Facebook, TradeMe Services, No Cowboys, and Builderscrack.
Drainage Control NZ LTD
Base: Johnsonville, Wellington
Hours: 24 Hours
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google rating: 4.8/5 (15+)
Website: Drainage Control NZ LTD
Facebook Page: None
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 029 970 3799
Customer Feedback:
Key Facts and Services:
Hours: 24 Hours
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google rating: 4.8/5 (15+)
Website: Drainage Control NZ LTD
Facebook Page: None
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 029 970 3799
Customer Feedback:
- Highly skilled and professional drainage specialists
- Efficient, thorough, and attentive to detail
- Flexible and cost-effective without compromising quality
- Clear communication and explanation of work at every stage
- Provides expert advice and supports insurance or technical requirements
Key Facts and Services:
- Offers services across residential, commercial and civil projects
- Range of solutions including drain‑laying, unblocking, CCTV inspections, storm‑water systems, retaining walls and landscaping
- Qualified technicians with advanced equipment, delivering rapid emergency responses (often within two hours) for blockages and drainage failures
- Over 20 years of experience with a reputation for high‑quality workmanship, customer communication and long‑term durable results
Plumb Plumbing and Drainage Limited
Base: Wellington Central
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Urgent/After Hours Available? Not specified
Google Review Rating: 5.0/5 (330+)
Facebook Page: Plumb Plumbing and Drainage Ltd
Website: Plumb Plumbing and Drainage Limited
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 027 310 9399
Customer Feedback:
Key Facts and Services:
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Urgent/After Hours Available? Not specified
Google Review Rating: 5.0/5 (330+)
Facebook Page: Plumb Plumbing and Drainage Ltd
Website: Plumb Plumbing and Drainage Limited
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 027 310 9399
Customer Feedback:
- Meticulous and professional in providing services
- Identifies the issues quickly
- Provides low-cost services
- Responsive to client’s concerns
- Able to provide alternatives or better options within the client’s requirements
- Shows confidence in his works
Key Facts and Services:
- 20 years of experience
- Fixes blocked drains, burst pipes, leaking taps
- Fixes running and blocked toilets
- Repairs and replaces hot water cylinder
- Repairs and replaces spouting and down pipe cleaning
Drain Doctor
Base: Petone, Lower Hutt
Hours:24 Hours
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google rating: 4.8/5 (90+)
Website: Drain Doctor
Facebook Page: Drain Doctor
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 564 526
Customer Feedback:
Key Facts and Services:
Hours:24 Hours
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google rating: 4.8/5 (90+)
Website: Drain Doctor
Facebook Page: Drain Doctor
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 564 526
Customer Feedback:
- Professional, friendly, and highly skilled drainage experts
- Fast response and thorough, hygienic clean-up after work
- Specialises in CCTV inspections, drain unblocking, and pipe repairs
- Provides clear explanations and practical solutions
- Reliable, efficient, and tidy service with great attention to detail
Key Facts and Services:
- Offers 24/7 emergency drainage services for blocked drains, stormwater issues and damp-area rectification
- Provides a full suite of drainage services including drain cleaning, CCTV inspections, high-pressure jetting and pipe repairs
- Experienced certified drainlayers with over 30 years’ expertise, delivering prompt, mess-free solutions
- Focused on high-quality workmanship, leaving properties clean, safe and fully operational upon completion
Natoli Plumbing & Drainage
Base: Lower Hutt, Wellington
Hours: Mon to Fri 6:30am - 5pm
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google Review Rating: 5.0/5 (100+)
Facebook Page: Natoli Plumbing & Drainage
Website: Natoli Plumbing & Drainage
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 027 569 3835
Customer Feedback:
Key Facts and Services:
Hours: Mon to Fri 6:30am - 5pm
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google Review Rating: 5.0/5 (100+)
Facebook Page: Natoli Plumbing & Drainage
Website: Natoli Plumbing & Drainage
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 027 569 3835
Customer Feedback:
- Quick response and great communication regarding the problem.
- Explains the issues in a manner that the client can understand
- Provides efficient and professional services
- Prompt and detailed with the client’s requests
- Quotes reasonable prices
Key Facts and Services:
- Provides 24/7 emergency services
- Fully equipped to handle all interior and exterior plumbing needs
- With 10 years of experience with plumbing and drain laying
- Installs or repairs hot water systems
- Does drain laying requirement, including blocked drains
Leslie Drain Clearing
Base: Petone, Lower Hutt
Hours: 24 hours
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google rating: 4.8/5 (20+)
Website: Leslie Drain Clearing
Facebook Page: Leslie Drain Clearing
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 04 979 7357
Customer Feedback:
Key Facts and Services:
Hours: 24 hours
Urgent/After Hours Available? Yes
Google rating: 4.8/5 (20+)
Website: Leslie Drain Clearing
Facebook Page: Leslie Drain Clearing
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 04 979 7357
Customer Feedback:
- Fast, same-day drain unblocking with efficient, high-quality results
- Friendly, professional, and easy to communicate with
- Quick to diagnose and fix issues, often within minutes
- Reliable local independent service with strong customer focus
Key Facts and Services:
- Based in Lower Hutt, covers Wellington, Hutt Valley, Porirua and Kāpiti regions
- Specialises in drain‐unblocking via hydro-jetting, CCTV inspection and full drain-laying for residential, rural and commercial sites
- Delivers detailed video reports of drain conditions and fault locations, minimising unnecessary excavation
- Offers prompt and reliable 24-hour service for emergency blockages and drainage repairs
MoneyHub's Top Trusted Wellington Drainage Specialist
- Our research identified the leading drainage specialists in Wellington who consistently deliver exceptional results for their clients.
- We recommend contacting Drainage Control NZ — our top-rated drainage specialist with proven reviews and a strong record of delivering reliable solutions for Wellington property owners.
- The best way to start your project is by calling their team directly; this allows you to discuss your drainage needs and find the most effective solution for your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my drainage problem is an emergency requiring immediate callout?
Call for emergency service if you're experiencing sewage backing up into your home, multiple fixtures draining slowly or not at all, foul sewage odours inside your property, or water pooling around your foundation. These issues can cause health hazards and property damage within hours. Emergency callouts typically cost $300-$600 as a base fee plus $150-$250 hourly, but preventing water damage or sewage contamination justifies the after-hours premium. Most Wellington providers respond within 2 hours for genuine emergencies.
What's the difference between CCTV inspection and high-pressure water jetting, and do I need both?
CCTV inspection ($350-$650) is a diagnostic tool using cameras to identify the exact location and nature of problems—blockages, tree roots, pipe damage, or structural issues—without excavation. High-pressure water jetting ($400-$800) is a treatment method using water streams up to 5000 PSI to clear stubborn blockages, grease, and roots. You typically need CCTV first to diagnose the problem accurately, followed by jetting if blockages are found. Many providers offer package deals combining both services, which is recommended for recurring issues or properties over 30 years old.
How can I avoid the 20-40% premium that Wellington's steep terrain adds to drainage costs?
While you can't change your property's topography, you can minimise access-related charges by clearing the path to access points before technicians arrive, scheduling non-urgent work during dry weather when equipment can be moved more easily, and choosing providers familiar with your specific area who already have the right equipment. Preventative maintenance programs also reduce emergency callouts where difficult access combines with after-hours rates for maximum expense.
What drainage work requires council permits, and who handles this?
Council permits are typically required for new stormwater connections, alterations to existing public drainage connections, work within road reserves, and major repairs affecting neighboring properties. Most professional drainage companies handle permit applications as part of their service, but always confirm this is included in their quote. The permit process can add 5-10 working days and $200-$500 in council fees to your project.
Will my home insurance cover drainage repairs, and how do payment plans work?
Insurance coverage varies significantly. Most policies cover sudden drainage failures but exclude gradual deterioration, tree root damage, or lack of maintenance. Check your policy's specific terms and photograph damage immediately. For uninsured repairs exceeding $5,000, many drainage companies partner with finance providers offering 6-24 month payment plans, though these typically require credit checks and may include interest. Emergency services often require immediate payment or credit card authorisation before work begins.
How often should I schedule preventative drainage maintenance, and what's included?
For typical Wellington homes, annual inspections are recommended, increasing to every 6 months for properties with mature trees, known drainage vulnerabilities, or previous root intrusions. Preventative maintenance ($200-$400 annually) typically includes CCTV inspection of main lines, clearing of any minor blockages, checking and cleaning gully traps, and a written report on your drainage system's condition. This investment often pays for itself by preventing just one emergency callout and can extend your drainage system's life by 10-15 years.
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⚠️ Disclaimer: MoneyHub.co.nz may have financial relationships with some businesses listed on this page due to their acceptance of our invite for additional promotion. We stand by the businesses we work with and believe them to be among the best. The pricing information provided is for informational and guidance purposes only and may not accurately represent the actual quotes or final bills for individual services. Our list should not be considered comprehensive. Please research and obtain quotes directly from a range of businesses to ensure accurate pricing and suitability for your needs.
