The Chair of Wellington Water has resigned following the “catastrophic failure” at the Moa Point wastewater treatment plant, resulting in raw sewage being pumped into the ocean.

Nick Leggett released a statement this morning, saying he would be stepping down from his role following the “deeply serious” disaster.

“While the operational causes of this event will be independently examined by a government review, leadership carries responsibility.

“Crises like these undermine public trust in institutions, and we won’t begin restoring that trust until leaders accept responsibility, in actions as well as words.

“As Chair of Wellington Water, I believe therefore it is appropriate that I step aside.”

Tomorrow will be Legget’s last day in the role, with Wellington Water’s deputy board chair, Bill Bayfield, to fill in on an interim basis until the board confirms a new chair.

It comes as untreated sewage continues to flow into the sea off Wellington’s south coast, after a serious failure saw the Moa Point plant flood and become inoperable.

The capital’s south coast beaches are currently off limits, and are expected to remain so for months as the plant is fixed.

Untreated sewage continues to flow into Cook Strait, after a serious failure at the Moa Point treatment plant. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Leggett said his decision was intended to remove distraction and allow the “focus to remain squarely on remediation, transparency, and learning”.

“Wellingtonians deserve clarity as the Mayor and council, and other responsible organisations, navigate this difficult period ahead.”

Leggett said he would contribute to a government run injury, which will seek to examine the root causes that led to the failure.

“[I will] look forward to the results so we can all understand how this occurred.

“Strong organisations improve when those in leadership roles are prepared to stand up in difficult moments. That is what I am doing.”

Wellington mayor Andrew Little met with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Monday to discuss the need for an independent inquiry into the disaster.

Little described the failure as “catastrophic”.