Environment Canterbury takes compassionate approach to clean air rules this winter

While cleaner air for Christchurch remains a desirable outcome for the city, the extraordinary circumstances facing the city this winter means keeping warm, using whatever heating is necessary, is more important, Environment Canterbury Director Resource Management Kim Drummond says.

Mr Drummond said the organisation understood that many people were facing very difficult situations at home, and the last thing they need to worry about is whether their home heating complies with Christchurch’s clean air rules.

“We are urging people to put their health and comfort at home first, as we will be taking a very compassionate approach to the clean air rules this year.

“In the wake of the earthquake, we will be very sensitive to individual circumstances. People may still make complaints to us about smoky chimneys and we will of course respond. We will use our judgement and tact when working with people in these situations.

“Our approach will be to talk to people about their situation. People should call our customer service staff (ph 353 9007) if they are in any way concerned about their circumstances this winter.”

Clean air rules apply from 1 April to 30 September in Christchurch and apply all year round in Kaiapoi. “We will be taking a similar approach with residents in both centres,” Mr Drummond says.

“We do ask that people check their heating before they use it for safety reasons. For example, you may need to get a professional to check that your chimney or flue is safe to use. You can get more advice on home heating safety at www.fire.org.nz .”