Queenstown Point
Clean air is fundamental to the health of people and environment.
We monitor air quality and work with our communities towards meeting the National Environmental Standards for Air Quality. Our Air Plan, guided by the Air Quality Strategy, help manage air pollution in Otago.
Exposure to air pollution has multiple negative impacts on health and is well-researched globally. In Otago, our biggest problem is particulate matter, PM10 and PM2.5
We measure air pollutants at many sites across our region in order to track air quality trends, investigate sources of pollution and to measure air quality against national standards and guidelines. This air quality data is publicly available on the LAWA website.
Air quality science monitors the tiny particles in our air that can harm health, particularly in vulnerable groups. Weather influences their dispersion, often peaking during cold, calm conditions.
Dust can come from natural sources (like soil) and human-made sources (like industrial factories).
Home fires are a significant source of air pollution in some Otago towns. Get tips on reducing air pollution, heating your home economically, and the fireplace rules & regulations in Otago right here.
If unpleasant smells bother you, let ORC know. Industry, farming, and treatment facilities can cause disruptions. ORC helps with effective odour management.
Some outdoor burning is allowed, but are you burning rubbish or toasting marshmallows? We have tips to help you reduce the pollution caused by outdoor fires.
The health of people in Otago depends on clean air. ORC is responsible for managing and reporting on Otago’s ambient (outdoor) air quality and carrying out long-term continuous monitoring. We share several reports that look at the air quality in our region.
If you observe any type of air pollution in Otago, such as dust, odours, or other pollutants, please contact our Pollution Hotline at 0800 800 033 or fill in the form on our Report Pollution page. Your information is crucial in helping us maintain a cleaner environment for everyone in Otago.
The Regional Plan: Air for Otago (the Air Plan) assists us in managing Otago's air resource.
The standards set a guaranteed minimum level of health protection for people living in New Zealand. Officially called the Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for Air Quality) Regulations 2004
ORC's Air Quality Strategy ensures safe, clean air in Otago for everyone's health. Download it to see how we're achieving this goal.
