Watersmart Wins Prestigious National Innovation Award for Stormwater Solution Porous Lane
Watersmart, a leader in sustainable urban water solutions, is proud to announce that its innovative product Porous Lane has won the 2025 Water New Zealand Stormwater Innovation Award, recognising its transformative impact on the country’s stormwater and urban infrastructure.
Presented last night at the Water New Zealand Stormwater Conference, the award highlights Porous Lane’s role in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing urban centres: managing stormwater sustainably in the face of intensifying climate events and growing urban density.
Watersmart’s Klaudia Matyjas, Business Development Manager for Porous Lane, delivered a compelling presentation that captured the judges’ attention, showcasing how Porous Lane delivers real-world results—reducing surface runoff, filtering pollutants, and enabling greener, more resilient streetscapes. The innovation beat out two other strong finalists in a highly competitive field.
“This award is a milestone not just for Watersmart, but for the future of urban design in Aotearoa,” said Andrew Olsen Innovation Lead at Watesmart. “Porous Lane is more than a product—it’s a practical, scalable solution to urban stormwater challenges. We’re thrilled that the industry recognises its potential.”
Porous Lane is a permeable, recycled tyre paving solution that allows rainwater to filter through its structure, preventing surface flooding, reducing pressure on stormwater systems, and supporting water-sensitive urban design. Made in part from recycled tyres, it also represents a major step toward circular economy principles in infrastructure.
Porus Lane pilot installs open for July—be part of the stormwater solution.
Watersmart is now seeking pilot installation sites for Porous Lane in July. Ideal applications include tree pits, shared paths and cycleways, driveways, and carparks. If you have a project that could benefit from sustainable, low-maintenance permeable paving—now’s the time to connect.
To apply for a pilot install or for more information on Porous Lane, please contact:
Klaudia Matyjas
Business Development Manager | Civil Infrastructure
Phone: +64 21 925 584
Email: klaudia@watersmart.co.nz
