In general Rangiora has good air quality. However in winter levels of PM10 pollution cause a serious health risk.

In Rangiora approximately 78% of the PM10 pollution air pollution is caused by home heating, 20% by industry and 2% by transport. The pollution will need to be reduced considerably by 2013. If the National Environmental Standards (NES) for Air Quality are not met by 2013, consents for air emissions may not be granted anymore.

Monitoring air pollution

PM10 is monitored year-round in Rangiora. During winter (1 May to 1 September) air pollution forecasts are published on the Environment Canterbury website.

Proposed rules for woodburners

To reduce air pollution by PM10, the Air Plan and its Variation 11 have proposed rules on the use of open fires and burners. Consultation on the Air Plan has closed. Emission standards for burners for properties smaller than 2 ha have been set by the Ministry for the Environment through the National Environmental Standards.

Find out what types of home heating appliances you can install in Rangiora.

Go to the list of approved home heating appliances for Rangiora.

More information on air pollution in Rangiora and other Canterbury areas

Clean Heat assistance consultation
Environment Canterbury is proposing to introduce an
assistance scheme for insulation and clean heating in Rangiora and Kaiapoi. The proposal is part of Environment Canterbury’s 2008-2009 draft annual plan and is one of several measures aimed at reducing winter air pollution (PM10) in these towns. Consultation on the annual plan including this Clean Heat assistance proposal has closed.