Performance and Durability
Q: Do solids build up and reduce the usable volume over time?
A: Solids management is critical for effluent storage. Flexi Tanks are the only flexible tanks that feature both side mixing valves and dedicated top mixing ports. This allows thorough agitation from multiple points using a standard effluent pump, keeping the contents as a consistent slurry and minimising sludge buildup. Combined with proper sand/stone traps on the inlet, this maintains usable capacity far better than basic sealed bladders. Regular mixing is straightforward and recommended.
Q: Do Flexi Tanks degrade in the New Zealand sun?
A: Like all tank and pond liner materials, the fabric is affected by long-term UV exposure. That’s why the expected service life is 15–20 years under normal New Zealand conditions. Our multi-layered, UV-stabilized technical fabric is specifically designed for harsh outdoor environments and comes with a full 10-year manufacturer’s warranty on the material and welding. In over 12 years and 800+ installations across New Zealand, we have not had any premature UV-related failures. Not all bladder fabrics are equal — we only supply top-tier material from a manufacturer with more than 60 years of experience.
Q: How strong are Flexi Tanks? Do they burst?
A: Our tanks are made from multi-layered technical rip-stop fabric with a tensile strength of 450 kg per 5 cm. They are manufactured in France by a company established in 1959. In more than 12 years of installing tanks across New Zealand we have not had any issues with tanks bursting.
Q: How long do Flexi Tanks last?
A: We offer a full 10-year manufacturer’s warranty on the fabric and welding. Expected service life under normal conditions is 15–20 years.
Q: Can I inspect or maintain the tank once it is installed?
A: The tank is a sealed, low-maintenance system. For effluent we recommend regular mixing through the side and top ports. The fabric is repairable (repair kit included), and tanks under 500 m³ can be emptied, cleaned, rolled up and relocated if required. Full maintenance guidance is supplied with every tank.
Q: What is KIWA certification?
A: Kiwa is an global company that works independently from manufactures to test and verify. Our KIWA certification backs up our ENVIRO+ fabric is suitable for storage of dairy effluents.
Q: I farm in a high rain fall area, is a Flexi Tank suitable for me?
A: Flexi Tanks are fully enclosed, so this prevents rainfall quietly filling your storage while you're out there farming, another benefit with enclosed storage is it also reduces your overall calculated storage needed, simply saving you more money up front.
Installation & Site Works
Q: What ground preparation is required?
A: The tank needs a perfectly flat, level surface. Allow the empty dimensions of the tank plus 2 metres in length and width. A compacted base with a top coat of approximately 10 cm of rolled sand or crusher dust is recommended. Full installation instructions are supplied with every tank.
Q: How long does installation take?
A: Once the tank is on site, installation typically takes 2–6 hours. After that it is ready to connect and fill — one of the fastest large-capacity storage solutions available.
Q: Do I need a consent?
A: Yes, Liquid storage over 35,000 liters requires local council consent. Flexi Tanks themselves do not need additional resource consent in most regions, but rules vary. We supply all the documentation needed to support your application. Always check with your local council as requirements can change.
Sizing, Cost & Practicalities
Q: What sizes do you offer?
A: Flexi Tanks are available from 1,000 liters up to 2.55 million liters. Our standard range is offered in 100 m³ increments (for example 100 m³, 200 m³, 300 m³, and so on). Custom sizes are also available.
Q: How do I work out what size I need?
A: The correct size depends on your farm operation, your daily water used, rainfall, and any consent requirements. Contact us with your details and we will help you calculate the right capacity.
Q: How much do Flexi Tanks cost?
A: Pricing depends on size and specification. A 100,000 litre water storage tank starts from $10,000 + GST and delivery. Larger sizes offer a better price per cubic metre of storage. Contact us for a tailored quote based on your requirements.
Q: Are Flexi Tanks depreciable?
A: Yes. They are a tangible asset and can be depreciated at 25% per year (Dairy Effluents & Leachates) Water is 16% depreciation. Smaller tanks can also be relocated and reused on future projects.
Q: What kinds of liquids can be stored?
A: Flexi Tanks are suitable for non-potable water, dairy effluent, liquid fertilizers, leachates, grape marc, and other liquids within a pH range of 4.5–9.5. Different fabric specifications are available depending on the liquid.
Q: What valves and fittings are included?
A: All tanks come with the necessary valves and male camlock fittings ready to connect to your system, Dairy Effluent Flexi Tanks have additional dedicated mixing valves all around the tank and mixing ports on top.
Comparison & Water Quality
Q: How do Flexi Tanks compare to steel tanks or traditional ponds?
A: Flexi Tanks have lower upfront and site-preparation costs, faster installation (2–6 hours), no mandatory fencing (fully enclosed and OSH compliant), and no rainwater dilution. They are also a depreciable asset. Steel tanks and ponds often involve higher civil works. The best option depends on your site, consent requirements and long-term plans — we are happy to help you compare.
Q: What is the water quality like when storing water?
A: Because the tank is fully enclosed with no light or air exposure, water stays fresh. Many growers report excellent water quality and positive effects on production.
Q: Are there compartments or baffles inside the tank?
A: No. Flexi Tanks are self-supporting and lie completely flat when empty.
Listen to all our facts and questions!
Short on time, but would like to know more about our Flexi Tank water storage solutions?
Listen on-the-go to this Magic Talk Radio interview (below) with Anton and Andre where they answered all the frequently asked questions via YouTube
Still have a question? Contact us — we’re happy to help.
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Terms & Conditions
Transperancy is important to us. We want to make sure you understand all our terms and conditions in relation to the Consumer Guarantees Act, so that you feel safe and protected when purchasing through us.
Bladder Tank Installation
Tank Use for Dairy Farmers