1483 days ago

Bad smells from Christchurch's fire-ravaged wastewater plant to continue for years

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Bad smells reminiscent of the 1970s and 80s will continue seeping out of Christchurch’s fire-damaged wastewater treatment plant for years to come, the city council says.

Fire destroyed two trickling filters at the Bromley wastewater plant on November 1.

It was the biggest fire in the city in recent times and led to residents being evacuated and a public health warning issued as thick, black smoke spread across the city.

The filters, which measured 8 metres high and 55m across, played a crucial role in the wastewater process and unpleasant smells have been wafting across parts of the city since the fire.

Christchurch City Council water boss Helen Beaumont told councillors on Wednesday the plant would not get back to a pre-fire level of smell until the trickling filters were replaced or an alternative process brought in, which would be several years away.

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More messages from your neighbours
15 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

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13 days ago

Poll: Are you starting to feel a lift in business confidence across the Canterbury region?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press reports that Canterbury is right in the middle of a construction boom, with activity forecast to peak around 2027 and major investment flowing into transport, water and energy infrastructure.

We want to know: Are you starting to feel a lift in business confidence across the Canterbury region?

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Are you starting to feel a lift in business confidence across the Canterbury region?
  • 43.6% Yes
    43.6% Complete
  • 56.4% No
    56.4% Complete
101 votes
3 days ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

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Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
  • 10.5% Yes! New Year, New Me
    10.5% Complete
  • 19.8% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    19.8% Complete
  • 69.6% Nah - not for me
    69.6% Complete
761 votes