Christchurch Wastewater Treatment Plant update

Wednesday 4 February 

Pond conditions continue to improve

We’ve been out on site again today and are pleased to report further improvements across the pond system with odour levels dropping.

Following yesterday’s rain, flows through the ponds have increased, and we’re seeing positive changes in the pond colour, which is shifting back toward a healthier state. There is also a noticeable amount of algae returning around the edges of Pond 2, which is an encouraging sign of recovery. All aerators are operating as they should.

Looking ahead, the expected sunny conditions should support the continued return of algae and help the ponds regain their natural balance.

While staff are cautiously optimistic about recent improvements in pond health, the ponds remain in a delicate and changeable state. Current odour monitoring is showing low levels of odour, however, under certain weather and operating conditions there remains a risk of odour returning.

We're meeting with external experts tomorrow to identify ways to strengthen the future resilience of the pond system and reduce the risk of similar events happening again.

Recap – Residents meeting 

Last night’s community meeting in Bromley was well attended. Thank you to everyone who came along.

We want to again acknowledge the hardship the community has faced and the impact the ongoing stench has had on daily life - not only in recent weeks, but throughout the years since the fire. We are committed to improving our processes so we can reduce the risk of similar events happening again, and provide earlier warnings when conditions change in the future.

The Mayor and Council staff gave an update on how this situation arose. We also heard clearly the call for better engagement. Your feedback is guiding our next steps.

Come and see us tomorrow

We'll have staff on the corners of Carters and Shortland streets tomorrow. Look out for the Council-branded trailer and feel free to come and speak one-on-one with members of our Community Partnerships and Three Waters teams. 

Door knocking next week 

Next week, we'll be in the community visiting neighbours of the plant to hear from them directly about their priorities. 

We've updated the odour status map 

With pond health improving we've updated the odour status map. You can always see the latest status, including when it was last updated, on our website. 

Common questions 

We've collated information that answers some of the most commonly asked questions about the fire, odour, health and wellbeing, and the long-term fix. 

Stay updated

We want everyone to be able to stay updated on what's happening at the Christchurch Wastewater Treatment Plant, and we regularly post new information on ccc.govt.nz/wastewaterfire 

You're welcome to send this update to your networks. If you know someone in the community who doesn’t have email or internet access, please print this newsletter off and pass it to them.

If you know of anyone who would like to receive this e-newsletter they can subscribe online. 

If you have any questions, or would like further information on the project, please call us on 03 941 8999 or 0800 800 169 or email wastewater@ccc.govt.nz  

Thanks for your patience and understanding. We’ll be in touch again soon.