Since January, the incident response team at Environment Canterbury has responded to 173 complaints across the central suburbs. This figure follows the 445 complaints received in 2023, up from 343 the previous year.
For properties smaller than two hectares, outdoor burning of any kind is banned, with the exception of cooking. Barbecues, pizza ovens, and hāngī or umu are permitted, provided that the smoke does not extend beyond the property boundary in an offensive or objectionable manner.
Sophie Harland, Zone Delivery Lead said “In some cases, people are deliberately burning rubbish to annoy their neighbours. The smoke also contributes to air pollution and is a general nuisance.”
Smoke from rubbish fires can pose significant health risks, particularly to individuals sensitive to smoke, such as those with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children, and the elderly.
Environment Canterbury
Dr Cheryl Brunton, Medical Officer of Health for the National Public Health Service, highlighted that vulnerable individuals may experience symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
“Exposure to smoke can also worsen pre-existing health conditions such as heart and lung disease.”
The materials being burnt often include treated timber and laminated materials from demolition or renovation projects, which produce toxic smoke. This not only endangers the health of neighbours but also the individuals burning the rubbish.
Sophie Harland said offenders could face enforcement actions, including a $300 fine and/or a cost-recovery invoice for substantiated breaches of the Canterbury Air Regional Plan. “We’ve spent a lot of time trying to educate people about the issue – but for some, the message is still getting lost, so we may need to take firmer measures,” she said.
Residents are encouraged to report outdoor burning-related incidents by calling 0800 765 588 (available 24 hours), using the Snap Send Solve app, or visiting reports.snapsendsolve.com.
