Updates for residents and businesses near the Christchurch Wastewater Treatment Plant site.
Trickling filter demolition complete
The demolition started in November 2024 and was completed in March 2025.
The site is now ready for the construction of the Activated Sludge Reactor. While the site will be quiet for a few months, there is plenty going on behind the scenes. Our team is busy finalising the design for the reactor. We’re also working towards selecting a contractor and awarding a contract.
Odour as ponds transition to winter mode
The transition from summer to winter mode at the wastewater treatment plant is taking longer than usual, leading to increased odour from the ponds.
Calm conditions also allow gases to accumulate and disperse when winds rise. The plant continues to operate at full capacity, and odour is expected to decrease as the ponds stabilise, though intermittent odours may still occur during winter, especially in calm or wet conditions.
Community meetings
We hold meetings for residents and businesses near the plant, where we share information about our on-site progress and upcoming works. These meetings are a chance for us to check in, answer some of your questions, and provide some insight into what to expect over the next few months.
Neighbouring residents and businesses receive a leaflet with information before the next meeting. If you're on our neighbour's email database, you will also receive an email.
How to stay informed
If you’re a neighbouring resident or business, please email wastewater@ccc.govt.nz with "Neighbour Subscribe" in the subject line. We will send you updates as we receive confirmation of upcoming concrete pour dates.
This webpage will be regularly updated as information is confirmed.