Investigations have revealed what’s behind an unusual smell reported in some areas of Pāuatahanui Inlet.
Locals reported that an unpleasant smell was occurring in certain wind conditions, in areas between James Cook Drive and Joseph Banks Drive, says David Down, Porirua City Council Manager Water and Waste.
“As a first step, our officers and Wellington Water checked for any evidence of wastewater overflows, but found nothing,” Mr Down says.
“Wellington Water found a black, sludgy material washed up on a small area foreshore that seemed to be the source of the smell.”
Three samples were taken and tested by an environmental testing lab. The results revealed:
· levels of lead likely to be sourced from road runoff
· possible heavy engine oil from State Highway runoff
· rotting plant material that has been washed up into a concentrated location.
“The rotten plant material is the source of the smell, however the combination with the oil substance has caused it to be concentrated in a small, sheltered and isolated area,” Mr Down says.
“Officers will now liaise with Greater Wellington to agree actions to clear the material.”
27 May 2019
