A briefing from the Public Health Communication Centre published today has revealed that persistent foul smells from environmental odour pollution in New Zealand plant can lead to serious health problems for nearby residents.

The report highlights how odours, often dismissed as mere nuisances, can trigger symptoms ranging from physical discomfort to mental health strain.

According to the briefing, exposure to these smells is associated with headaches, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, sore throats, and irritated eyes.

It also links odours to increased stress, anxiety, and a reduced quality of life, with effects that mimic chemical toxicity even when no harmful toxins are present in high levels.

Smell issues at Bromley Wastewater Plant in Christchurch have intensified since a 2021 fire damaged key filters at the plant, worsening the stench for local communities.

Residents have reported being forced indoors, avoiding social gatherings, and experiencing disrupted sleep and work due to the invasive smells, described as resembling rotten fish or decaying waste.

The briefing analysed 36 odour pollution cases across New Zealand over the past decade, with wastewater plants like Bromley accounting for a quarter of them.

Meat processing and landfills were other major sources, but the report stresses that prolonged exposure in residential areas amplifies community-wide harm.

Lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Jarman said there is a need for better recognition of these impacts, noting that regional councils often overlook non-toxic odours in favour of chemical monitoring alone.

To address the problem, the report calls for improved odour controls at facilities, updated management guidelines, and greater advocacy from public health services.