The new resource consents include a comprehensive set of conditions that require the Council to regularly monitor the discharges from the Wastewater System and their effects on the environment. 

What monitoring is required for the discharge of treated wastewater to the ocean?

A very extensive monitoring programme is required for the discharge of treated wastewater to the Pacific Ocean. This includes:

• monitoring the amount and flow rates of the treated wastewater discharge
• monitoring the treated wastewater quality. This includes 20 different types of tests
• testing the Pacific Ocean receiving waters at 9 locations for microbiological levels
• testing shellfish for microbiological and trace metal levels 
• every 10 years the Council must undertake a comprehensive ecological survey of marine life and sediments in the vicinity of the outfall.

What monitoring is required for the irrigation of reclaimed water?

The key monitoring conditions for the irrigation of reclaimed water are as follows:

• monitoring of the irrigated areas and quantities of reclaimed water that are discharged
• testing of microbiological levels of the reclaimed water
• ensuring that the irrigation is carried out in compliance with the Management Plan that the Council is required to prepare.

What monitoring is required for the air discharges?

The air discharge consents from the Chapel Street Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Te Maunga Wastewater Treatment Plant include monitoring conditions that require the Council to:

• maintain an odour complaints register
• periodically undertake odour measurements at specified locations
• walk around both treatment plants once a month to inspect for any odours