Septic Tank Cleaning
Prompt, reliable septic tank cleaning that protects your system
Need your septic tank emptied and cleaned? Using over 50 metres of hose and leading European vacuum technology, we can carefully remove the waste from your septic tank while leaving enough beneficial bacteria behind to keep your system working properly. This will allow for the correct breakdown of matter in the tank.
Our services cover the entire South Taranaki region and surrounding areas. Whether you’re based in Oakura or Whangaehu, we’re available 24/7 for prompt, efficient septic tank cleaning.
From $644 + GST*
*travel costs apply
Why professional septic tank cleaning is important
Prevents blockages, backups, and unpleasant odours caused by waste build-up
Protects the drainage field from damage that can be costly to repair
Keeps the natural bacteria in your tank working properly
Extends the lifespan of your septic system
Reduces the risk of system failure and emergency call-outs
Protects your property, groundwater, and the surrounding environment
Need help finding your septic tank lid?
To keep the cleaning job simple and efficient, your septic tank lid must be exposed before we arrive.
If you can’t locate your lid, we can guide you over the phone. Sometimes a few photos are all we need to help identify the likely position. If you're unable to locate or access the lid yourself, we can also come out and find and uncover it for you.
Please note that locating and digging up the tank lid is an additional service and cost.
How we clean your septic tank system
Access the tank safely
We locate and access your septic tank with minimal disruption to your property.
Remove built-up waste thoroughly
Using up to 50 metres of hose and leading European vacuum technology, we remove waste from the tank.
Protect the biological process
We clean the tank carefully, leaving the correct balance of material to maintain the natural bacteria needed for proper system function.
Check system condition
During the clean, we visually assess the tank for any obvious issues that may affect performance.
Clean up and restore the area
Once complete, we securely reseal the tank and leave the area tidy.
Common signs that your septic tank needs cleaning
Not sure if your tank needs a professional clean?
If you notice any of the following signs, your septic tank may be due for a clean.
Slow-draining sinks, toilets, or showers, even after basic plumbing checks
Wastewater backing up through outside gully traps (the drains outside your bathroom or kitchen), which may indicate a blockage or a full septic tank.
Unpleasant smells coming from drains, toilets, or the area around the tank
Gurgling or bubbling sounds in pipes when water is used
Sewage backing up into toilets, sinks, or floor drains
Pooling water or soggy ground around the septic tank or drain field
Wastewater surfacing or visible sludge near the tank area
If the issue is caused by a blockage, we can clear your pipes or septic system without requiring a separate plumber call-out.
No mess left behind
Our vacuum trucks and jetters ensure a thorough clean without spills, smells, or mess left behind.
Book your no-mess septic tank clean with SepticWorks today.
What people are saying
“Just had Thomas round to clean our septic tank. Great service, turned up when he said he would, got about his business with no hassles at all. He gave great advice and recommendations. Hard to find service like that nowadays.”
- Shaun Hurley
Septicworks LTD for our septic tank clean out. Good communications, top of the range equipment, and very pleasant to deal with. Don't waste time with the run-around you'll get from the others - just call Septicworks.
- Ken Flowers
I emailed over the weekend about a septic tank clean service and within a few hours on the same day Thomas replied. Super professional, responsive and attentive of our needs. Highly recommend Thomas and his company, will definitely be using again!
- TLH LTD
Answering your questions about septic tank cleaning
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Based out of Hawera, we serve the entire Taranaki region, including Ōakura, Whanganui, New Plymouth, Stratford and surrounding towns.
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Most septic tanks should be professionally cleaned every 3-5 years, but the exact timing will depend on your household’s size, water use, and tank capacity. If your septic tank is showing signs such as slow drains, unpleasant odours, or pooling water around the tank, it may need cleaning sooner to prevent system failure or costly repairs.
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If you notice wastewater backing up into drains or coming out of outside gully traps, this is a common sign your septic tank is either blocked or full. Other signs may include slow drains, bad odours, or gurgling pipes.
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At Septic Works, our septic tank cleaning service starts from $644 + GST. For an accurate quote of how much yours will cost, get in touch with our team.
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In New Zealand, the lifespan of a septic tank typically ranges from 25 to 40 years, depending on the type of system, installation quality, and how well it’s maintained. Timely cleaning and maintenance by a professional may help prolong its lifespan.
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Most standard septic tank cleaning jobs can be emptied within 30 minutes to an hour. However, the time it takes will vary according to the size of the tank, how full it is, and how easy it is to access.
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No, you should not attempt to empty a septic tank yourself, as it presents several health and safety hazards, including exposure to toxic gases and waste. A trained professional with proper licensing is required to empty and dispose of septic waste.