It was not until reaching the outskirts of Halswell, around 16km west from the treatment plant, that the smell noticeably eased. Earlier, Environment Canterbury confirmed it had already received 210 complaints, primarily from east Christchurch residents reporting a strong sewage odour. The wastewater treatment plant is essential for the whole city, and that makes the situation incredibly complex.”Simons said the odour should be recognised as a form of pollution, with real and ongoing health impacts. “It’s very real, and it does have an impact on health, not only their physical health but mental health. “We can’t shut the wastewater treatment plant down.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 29, 2026 19:04 UTC