Future monitoring

In addition to existing monitoring programmes, the Council is planning to establish a carbon monoxide monitoring programme in Whangarei city. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless, yet highly toxic gas which is found in, amongst other things, car exhaust fumes.

Photo: Backyard burning of rubbish

You can help reduce the amount of air pollution in our region by:

· Using low emission burners;

· Cleaning your chimney at least once a year;

· Never burning rubbish, plastics or treated wood in your wood fire;

· Never using coal in a wood burner;

· Avoid burning rubbish and vegetation in your backyard;

· Compost vegetation and recycle other materials.

Find out more www.nrc.govt.nz/backyardburning or for more information on the Regional Air Quality Plan go to www.nrc.govt.nz/raqp