View current environmental incidents
We respond to a variety of environmental incidents in the region that affect our air, water and land. Here you can find the latest serious environmental incident alerts.
This page covers alerts for unexpected or urgent incidents involving discharges to land, air, and water, where we need the public to avoid a particular area.
Precautionary signage at Ōpāwaho Heathcote River
4 November 2026
As a precaution due to potential discharges to the stormwater system during Fire and Emergency New Zealand's response to a building fire in Sydenham, Christchurch, warning signs have been placed near stormwater outfalls to the Ōpāwaho Heathcote River.
Signs have been placed opposite Wildberry Street and Mackenzie Avenue, on Richardson Terrace in Woolston.
No evidence of contamination has been observed, but as a precaution, people and their pets should follow the warning signs and avoid contact with the water in these areas until the signs are removed.
Our team will continue to monitor the waterway for contaminants.
Remediation of Alport Place oil discharge
Last updated: 1 November 2026
Christchurch City Council is continuing clean-up work at the diesel spill site at the Alport Place pump station in Woolston, and has prepared a remediation plan for the next stage of the response. The spill came from Christchurch City Council’s pump station, and appears to have resulted from an overnight theft of diesel from the facility.
Environment Canterbury staff will keep monitoring the remediation work and conditions in and around Steam Wharf Stream. While the clean-up continues, please avoid the affected area, keep pets away, and do not touch the water or gather food from it.
Warning signs will stay in place until the site has been cleared and monitoring shows restrictions can be lifted safely.