Strong odours in Tauranga have been linked to operational issues at the Te Maunga Wastewater Treatment Plant following a discharge into the sewer network, according to the Tauranga City Council. This discharge has disrupted the biological processes used to treat wastewater, and the council expects odour levels to gradually reduce over the next two to three weeks as the plant returns to its usual operating rhythm.
Why are odours occurring at the Te Maunga plant?
The council stated this morning that the plant is recovering from a discharge that impaired critical biological processes. These processes are essential to the plant’s operation, and their temporary impairment has resulted in increased odour emissions.
The council is currently investigating the source of the discharge. Officials are also working to stabilise the treatment process to minimise the impact on the community.
Built in 1996, the Te Maunga Wastewater Treatment Plant’s average daily flow is 20,000 cubic metres.
Is the wastewater discharge safe for the ocean?
The council confirmed that treated wastewater continues to be safely discharged to the ocean. This discharge remains in compliance with regulatory standards and existing consents.
The treated water is released via a 950m long pipe that is buried offshore from Pāpāmoa. The Te Maunga facility is one of two wastewater treatment plants serving the city.
How is the situation being monitored?
Bay of Plenty Regional Council compliance team leader Trudy Richards said the agency has received 15 calls via its Pollution Hotline since Monday. Richards stated that the regional council is monitoring the situation closely while the Tauranga City Council works to address the matter.
The council noted that ongoing upgrades at the plant were designed to improve its resilience to these types of events.
The council expects odour levels to gradually reduce over the next two to three weeks as the plant returns to its usual operating rhythm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the strong odours?
A discharge into the sewer network has disrupted the biological processes used to treat wastewater at the Te Maunga plant.
How long will the odour last?
The council expects odour levels to gradually reduce over the next two to three weeks.
Is the ocean being affected by the discharge?
No, the council stated that treated wastewater continues to be safely discharged to the ocean in compliance with regulatory standards.
How has the odour impacted your daily routine in the area?
