Introduction

Land can become contaminated when there are hazardous substances present that could pose a threat to human health or the environment. As a result of hazardous activities and industries (HAIL), both past and present, Waka Kotahi projects may encounter contaminants in soil, and so we need to consider and plan in advance for management of contamination.

Managing contaminants in soil to protect human health must meet the requirements of the Resource Management (National Environmental Standard for Assessing and Managing Contaminants in Soil to Protect Human Health) Regulations 2011 (the NES-CS). In addition, regional and unitary plans often require consideration of ground contamination to protect human health and the environment. There are also requirements for protecting the health and safety of workers disturbing contaminants in the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), particularly requirements for managing risks from asbestos in soil.

Future updates

We are currently developing guidelines on coal tar.

Our policy

Our policy on contaminated land can be found in:

Standards

Specifications

Guidance

Regulations

Resources

Further information

For further information contact environment@nzta.govt.nz