Trenchless technology is carving out groundbreaking ways to rehabilitate pipelines without the mess, and International No-Dig 2026 is key to these developments.
Trenchless technology isn’t just a niche in the water industry; it’s a revolution transforming how the water industry rehabilitates the pipelines underpinning modern infrastructure. International No-Dig in Auckland 2026 promises to showcase innovation and opportunity for anyone in the industry. With global leaders like IMS Robotics in attendance, this event isn’t about maintaining the status quo but redefining what’s possible in pipeline reconstruction, environmental stewardship and contractor empowerment.
Rethinking the approach to pipelines
“We’ve evolved from digging trenches to using precision tools that operate like Swiss Army knives,” said Ned Robinson, the General Manager of IMS Robotics in Australia.
IMS is a German manufacturer of sewer rehabilitation equipment with over 30 years of industry experience. According to Robinson, trenchless technology has made pipeline rehabilitation faster, safer and more environmentally friendly. From reinstating junctions to cleaning and UV curing, the robotics-driven solutions reduce the need for disruptive excavation.
“Traditionally, you had to dig up an entire area to address a pipeline issue,” Robinson said. “Now, we can rehabilitate pipes in place, solving problems without open-cut methods’ delays, costs, or environmental damage.”
These advances mean a more sustainable future, reducing carbon footprints while maintaining critical infrastructure for potable water and wastewater systems.
Trenchless technology has also created opportunities for niche specialisation within the water and wastewater industry. Robinson noted that innovations such as robotic cutters and ultra-high-pressure tools are not just technological achievements but also enable utilities and contractors to extend the life of existing infrastructure in previously unimaginable ways.
Creating opportunities for contractors
Beyond their technological marvels, trenchless solutions allow contractors to expand their capabilities. Robinson believes these tools are transformative.
“Contractors can tackle issues like blocked drains or collapsed pipes efficiently, creating both business opportunities and community benefits,” he said. This ripple effect extends to supporting families, creating employment, and sustaining businesses globally. Robinson sees this as a significant development.
“Drainage might be overlooked, but it’s foundational,” he said. “With reliable infrastructure, we ensure health, sanitation and access to safe drinking water. Trenchless technology bridges the gap between solving immediate issues and building lasting systems.”
Robinson highlighted how trenchless technology fosters economic resilience. Companies like IMS Robotics empower contractors to deliver reliable services even in challenging economic climates by providing them with advanced tools.
“When contractors can depend on versatile, durable equipment, they’re better equipped to meet client needs and sustain their long-term businesses,” he said.
Why International No-Dig matters
IMS Robotics will present its latest innovations at International No-Dig, a premier event for the global trenchless community.
“We want to show the world what we’ve been working on,” Robinson said. “Every corner of the globe faces its own pipeline challenges. We must share knowledge and highlight solutions tailored to regions like the Pacific Islands, while also showcasing tools to address their unique challenges.”
The global nature of IMS Robotics plays a central role in creating and developing innovative solutions that can be implemented anywhere in the world. In representing its Australian division, Robinson talked about the importance of collaborating with colleagues across the globe.
“We draw on expertise from our branches across Europe, the Americas, and beyond,” Robinson said. “When we present at International No-Dig, we showcase solutions validated worldwide. Even if a challenge hasn’t arisen in Australia, we can adapt insights from our teams in the UK, Denmark and North America.”
International No-Dig is a critical platform for addressing emerging environmental and urbanisation challenges.
“With urban areas expanding rapidly, the demand for non-invasive infrastructure repair is growing,” he said. “This event allows us to discuss best practices, explore new techniques, and identify how trenchless technology can keep pace with these demands.”
What’s on show in 2026
IMS Robotics plans to showcase cutting-edge technologies such as ultra-high-pressure robotic cutters and UV curing systems. According to Robinson, these products represent the core of their Australian operations and align with the interests of the New Zealand market.
“We’ll display solutions tailored to regional needs,” he said. “We aim to understand contractors’ specific problems and offer equipment to solve them effectively.”
Robinson highlighted the adaptability of their approach, which includes consulting with local partners to provide targeted demonstrations.
IMS Robotics’ ability to tailor its approach stems from a broader understanding of global trends. By leveraging its international presence, the company identifies successful methodologies from various regions. For example, the UK’s success with ultra-high-pressure cutting has informed solutions recently applied at a mine site in Perth, Western Australia. Similarly, UV curing techniques pioneered in Australia have been shared with teams abroad. This cross-pollination of ideas ensures that IMS remains at the forefront of trenchless technology innovation.
Attendees at International No-Dig 2026 can also expect to see a focus on reducing environmental impact. Trenchless methods avoid excavation and reduce disruption to ecosystems and urban areas. Robinson pointed out that these advancements align with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in infrastructure development.
“We’re meeting the dual challenge of efficiency and environmental responsibility,” he said.
Robinson hopes the event will spur collaboration and innovation beyond showcasing products. The event’s collaborative spirit has historically driven transformative ideas that ripple across the industry.
“When the brightest minds in trenchless technology gather, the potential for groundbreaking advancements is immense,” he said.
Looking forward
International No-Dig isn’t just a trade show; it’s a call to action. For Robinson and IMS Robotics, the event inspires collaboration, showcases advancements, and ensures that no one faces infrastructure challenges alone.
With its eyes firmly on the future, the trenchless industry is poised to make a lasting impact. “We’re not just solving problems. We’re shaping a smarter, more sustainable way forward for the world’s pipelines.”
For more information, visit no-dignz.com and ims-robotics.com.au
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