Timaru odour issues
If you notice an unpleasant odour in the Washdyke and north Timaru area you can take action by reporting it to us via the Smelt-it app.
The Smelt-it app (smelt-it.web.app) can be used on a mobile phone, tablet or desktop computer and allows you to easily report information to help our local team find the source of an offensive odour.
Update 9: 22 January 2024
63 reports were made via the Smelt-it app on Friday 19 January which helped provide valuable information to our team.
We recognise the significant impact the odour event had on the community. We have responded and the matter is now under formal investigation.
Further information will be provided after this investigation.
Southern zone delivery lead, Gina Slee, said that no one in the community should have to suffer through avoidable offensive odours and we take the reports coming through from Smelt-it very seriously. Thanks to everyone who took the time to report the odour.
Residents in the Northern Timaru and Washdyke communities should continue to use the Smelt-it website to report offensive or objectionable odours.
Background on Timaru odour issues
In 2021, we delivered the Timaru Odour Pilot project.
This new approach, working with the Timaru North and Washdyke communities and industries as well as independent odour assessors enabled us to identify key sites that were discharging offensive and objectionable odour that was impacting these communities.
As a result, those businesses completed a root cause analysis, identified solutions, and implemented a plan to address those root causes.
Now that the project has concluded, our focus is on monitoring compliance and enforcement of our Clean Air rules in Timaru.
Using the Smelt-it app
Head to Smelt-it.web.app and complete the form.
Handy tips
- If you encounter difficulty entering the address into Smelt-it, consider entering the closest address to your location when you notice the odour. Smelt-it requires an address for more informative data.
- Log the smell in Smelt-it even if you only notice it on weekends.
- If you work in the Washdyke area and detect an odour during the day, use Smelt-it to report it.
- You cannot input your perceived source of the odour in Smelt-it. We require information on where you were when you noticed the odour and at what time. We use scientific approaches like wind direction and dispersion models to narrow down potential sources, testing community experience against scientific data. During the trial, keeping an open mind is crucial.
- You will only receive a call from us if further information is needed after logging a Smelt-it notification and providing your details.
- For issues using Smelt-it, refer to the FAQs on the Smelt-it tool. Alternatively, call 0800 324 636 for assistance.
If you don't have a mobile, you can still use Smelt-it on a tablet or desktop computer. Call 0800 324 636 for assistance, or continue reporting odours via our incident response line at 0800 765 588.