under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
Speech - Zero Waste Aotearoa National Summit 2024
Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment
Monday, 18 November 2024 (15 mins)
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14
I’ll have more information on this in the coming months.
Waste to energy
I know you will also be interested to hear more about the Government’s view
on waste to energy.
Today, there are a variety of technologies available for converting waste into
energy.
These range from traditional incineration to more advanced methods like
gasification and anaerobic digestion plants like the Ecogas Reporoa facility
near Rotorua, which is also working towards decarbonising New Zealand’s gas
supply.
under the Official Information Act 1982
Some forms of waste to energy already exist in New Zealand.
With support from the Waste Minimisation Fund, Golden Bay Cement has
been able to reduce coal use through converting to alternative fuels such as
Released
tyres and waste wood.
15
Bioenergy has a key role to play in decarbonising New Zealand’s economy
and we’re likely to see more of this in the future.
Some forms of waste to energy have greater risks associated with them, which
need to be well managed.
I’ll touch briefly on two waste-to-energy proposals I’m aware many of you are
following.
The Minister for the Environment may ‘call in’ the decision-making process for
resource consents that relate to a ‘proposal of national significance’.
You may be aware that after considering officials’ advice and my statutory
obligations on the matter, in August I ‘called in’ the Te Awamutu waste-to-
energy facility proposal.
under the Official Information Act 1982
I have referred the proposal to a board of inquiry for a decision.
The consent application attracted more than 800 submissions from the local
Released
community, non-governmental organisations and Treaty partners.
16
I decided to call it in given the widespread public interest in the proposal, and
the concerns raised about the possible impacts of relatively new type of
technology and processes on New Zealand’s environment.
I believe calling in the proposal is the best course of action to consider those
concerns.
The board will run an independent process to decide on the consent
application.
It will consider public submissions, hold hearings, deliberate, and make a
decision within a nine-month period.
I also want to give you an update on the Waimate waste-to-energy proposal.
You’ll also be aware the previous Environment Minister called in this consent
under the Official Information Act 1982
and referred it to the Environment Court.
You may also be aware the Waimate waste-to-energy proposal was one of the
Released
149 projects released for inclusion in the Government’s one-stop-shop Fast-
track Approvals Bill.
17
I would like to take this opportunity to clarify that all projects listed in Schedule
2 of the Bill, once it is passed into law, will still be required to apply to an
expert panel for their approvals.
While the Bill process is faster than standard processes, the panel is still
required to assess the environmental impacts of the project.
If the panel decides to grant an application, they can also recommend
conditions to ensure adverse effects of the project on the environment are
managed appropriately.
The Environmental Protection Authority will manage this process.
More information about all projects in the consent process will be made
available in due course on the EPA’s website.
under the Official Information Act 1982
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From:
9(2)(a)
To:
Cc:
Subject:
RE: Te Awamutu waste to energy plant update
Date:
Friday, 20 December 2024 10:07:00 AM
Attachments:
image001.png
Thanks 9(2)(a) – I wasn’t aware so great to know this.
Nothing further needed.
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 20 December 2024 10:06 AM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Te Awamutu waste to energy plant update
Hi 9(2)(a)
Heads up on this – not sure if you were aware this was coming? I wasn’t… Any issues
please let me know asap
Cheers
9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
@epa.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 20 December 2024 10:01 AM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
under the Official Information Act 1982
@parliament.govt.nz>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@epa.govt.nz>;9(2)(a)
@epa.govt.nz>;
9(2)(a)
@mfe.govt.nz>
Subject: Te Awamutu waste to energy plant update
Kia ora koutou,
FYI, we are planning to issue a media release on Monday signalling next steps for the
Released
resource consent application for the Te Awamutu waste to energy plant.
It will include information from the attached Board minute, which will be issued to the
applicant and submitters today.
under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
Media query form
Office of Hon Penny Simmonds
Date of initial
Tuesday, 14 January 2025
media query
Journalist’s
Kendal Kanoa Kukahiko
contact details
Production Manager
Kea Kids News on NZ Herald
9(2)(a)
kendal @lukenola.tv
Kea Kids News – News for kids by kids!
Media query
Thanks so much 9(2)(a) I appreciate your time!
Here are the questions again, I got ahead of myself and had some typos in there, apologies
for that:
How toxic is the fly ash that wil be generated by the plant?
How do you plan to get rid of the fly ash, and how can you guarantee that ash disposal wil
be safe for the community and animals in the years to come?
How wil the waste incinerator plant keep gaseous pol ution from reaching the Waimate
communities, especial y their school, which is downwind of the plant site?
How wil the roads be protected from the increased traffic of heavy trucks?
Can the fumes generated by the plant affect cow milk production and newborn calves?
One child feels that you aren’t concerned about their health because it doesn’t affect you.
How do you respond to that?
If the plant is 60% Chinese-owned, how much say wil New Zealanders have in the future of
the waste burning?
Aloha,
Kendal
Date of Minister’s Wednesday, 15 January 2025
email response
Minister’s email
Kia ora Kendall,
response
Thanks for your email.
Please see the statement below in response to your questions.
Statement from Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment
under the Official Information Act 1982
“The project is one of 149 projects listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024,
which aims to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and development projects with significant
regional or national benefits.
“Even though the process is faster, projects stil need to get approval from an expert panel
that wil assess the environmental impacts based on local and national planning rules. Local
councils can also comment on the project and suggest an expert to join the panel. It wil be
up to expert panels to decide whether to approve or decline applications in accordance with
the decision-making requirements in the Act.
Released “If the panel approves the project, they can set conditions to manage any negative
environmental effects. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) wil administer the
expert panel process. More information about projects in the approval process wil be
available on the EPA’s website if a formal application is made in the future.”
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
2
Response
Hon Penny Simmonds,9(2)(a)
Sign off
Portfolio Private
9(2)(a)
Secretaries sent
email copy of final
response
Background
Notes from MfE
information to
inform Minister’s
The project is one of 149 projects listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024,
response
which aims to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and development projects with significant
regional or national benefits.
Even though the process is faster, projects stil need to get approval from an expert panel
that wil assess the environmental impacts based on local and national planning rules. Local
councils can also comment on the project and suggest an expert to join the panel. It wil be
up to expert panels to decide whether to approve or decline applications in accordance with
the decision-making requirements in the Act.
If the panel approves the project, they can set conditions to manage any negative
environmental effects. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) wil administer the
expert panel process. More information about projects in the approval process wil be
available on the EPA’s website if they make a formal application in the future.
under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
From:
9(2)(a)
To:
Penny Simmonds
Cc:
9(2)(a)
Subject:
Re: SIGN OFF: response to media query on SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Date:
Wednesday, 15 January 2025 3:00:00 PM
Attachments:
image001.jpg
Thank you. Will send to the journalist now.
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Penny Simmonds <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 2:30:40 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: RE: SIGN OFF: response to media query on SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Yes good to go thanks
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 1:37 PM
To: Penny Simmonds <[email address]>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: SIGN OFF: response to media query on SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
HI Minister,
A media query has been received on the Waimate waste to energy plant.
MfE have fact checked and approved the draft response below. Please confirm your sign off.
I will text you to alert you to this email. Look forward to hearing from you today.
Kind regards,
9(2)(a)
Kia ora Kendall,
Thanks for your email.
Please see the statement below in response to your questions.
Statement from Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment
“The project is one of 149 projects listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, which aims to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and
development projects with significant regional or national benefits.
“Even though the process is faster, projects still need to get approval from an expert panel that will assess the environmental impacts based on local and national
planning rules. Local councils can also comment on the project and suggest an expert to join the panel. It will be up to expert panels to decide whether to approve
or decline applications in accordance with the decision-making requirements in the Act.
“If the panel approves the project, they can set conditions to manage any negative environmental effects. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) will
administer the expert panel process. More information about projects in the approval process will be available on the EPA’s website if a formal application is
made in the future.”
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
e of Hon. Penny Simmonds
[mobile number](2)(a)
under the Official Information Act 1982
From: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Sent: Tuesday, 14 January 2025 12:19 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: Re: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Thanks so much 9(2)(a) , I appreciate your time! Here are the questions again, I got ahead of myself and had some typos in there,
apologies for that:
How toxic is the fly ash that will be generated by the plant?
How do you plan to get rid of the fly ash, and how can you guarantee that ash disposal will be safe for the community and animals in the
Released
years to come?
How will the waste incinerator plant keep gaseous pollution from reaching the Waimate communities, especially their school, which is
downwind of the plant site?
How will the roads be protected from the increased traffic of heavy trucks?
Can the fumes generated by the plant affect cow milk production and newborn calves?
One child feels that you aren’t concerned about their health because it doesn’t affect you. How do you respond to that?
If the plant is 60% Chinese-owned, how much say will New Zealanders have in the future of the waste burning?
From:
9(2)(a)
To:
Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko
Cc:
9(2)(a)
Subject:
RE: RESPONSE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Date:
Wednesday, 15 January 2025 3:40:00 PM
Attachments:
image001.jpg
Thanks Kendall – that sounds great!
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
e of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Sent: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 3:33 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: Re: RESPONSE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Great, thank you so much9(2)(a) ! I’ll make sure you get the live link when the story goes up.
Aloha,
Kendall
On 15/01/2025, at 3:01 PM, 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz> wrote:
Kia ora Kendall,
Thanks for your email.
Please see the statement below in response to your questions.
Statement from Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment
“The project is one of 149 projects listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, which aims to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and
development projects with significant regional or national benefits.
“Even though the process is faster, projects still need to get approval from an expert panel that will assess the environmental impacts based on local and
national planning rules. Local councils can also comment on the project and suggest an expert to join the panel. It will be up to expert panels to decide
whether to approve or decline applications in accordance with the decision-making requirements in the Act.
“If the panel approves the project, they can set conditions to manage any negative environmental effects. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
will administer the expert panel process. More information about projects in the approval process will be available on the EPA’s website if a formal
application is made in the future.”
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
under the Official Information Act 1982
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
Press Secretary | Office of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 11:59 AM
To: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Subject: RE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
HI Kendall,
I am still following up on a response to this and will come back to you as soon as I can later today.
Released
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
Press Secretary | Office of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From:
9(2)(a)
To:
9(2)(a)
Cc:
9(2)(a)
Subject:
RE: RESPONSE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Date:
Wednesday, 22 January 2025 1:48:00 PM
Attachments:
image001.jpg
20250114 Media query Kea Kids.docx
Hi all,
FYI only – in case of interest, the NZ Herald Kea Kids team sent me a link to the video they produced that features our statement.
Kea Kids News: NZ’s waste needs to go somewhere, but why Waimate?
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 3:03 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
Cc: 9(2)(a)
Subject: FW: RESPONSE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Hi 9(2)(a)
FYI below and attached – confirming the response below has been approved by the Minister and sent to the journalist.
Thanks again to you and the team for your work on this.
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 3:02 PM
To: 'Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko' <[email address]>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: RESPONSE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Kia ora Kendall,
Thanks for your email.
Please see the statement below in response to your questions.
Statement from Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment
“The project is one of 149 projects listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, which aims to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and
development projects with significant regional or national benefits.
“Even though the process is faster, projects still need to get approval from an expert panel that will assess the environmental impacts based on local and national
planning rules. Local councils can also comment on the project and suggest an expert to join the panel. It will be up to expert panels to decide whether to approve
or decline applications in accordance with the decision-making requirements in the Act.
“If the panel approves the project, they can set conditions to manage any negative environmental effects. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) will
administer the expert panel process. More information about projects in the approval process will be available on the EPA’s website if a formal application is
made in the future.”
under the Official Information Act 1982
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 11:59 AM
To: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Subject: RE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
HI Kendall,
Released
I am still following up on a response to this and will come back to you as soon as I can later today.
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Tuesday, 14 January 2025 1:28 PM
To: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: RE: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Thanks Kendall – I will follow up on these questions for you.
Ngā mihi,
Amy
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
e of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Sent: Tuesday, 14 January 2025 12:19 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: Re: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Thanks so much 9(2)(a) I appreciate your time! Here are the questions again, I got ahead of myself and had some typos in there,
apologies for that:
How toxic is the fly ash that will be generated by the plant?
How do you plan to get rid of the fly ash, and how can you guarantee that ash disposal will be safe for the community and animals in the
years to come?
How will the waste incinerator plant keep gaseous pollution from reaching the Waimate communities, especially their school, which is
downwind of the plant site?
How will the roads be protected from the increased traffic of heavy trucks?
Can the fumes generated by the plant affect cow milk production and newborn calves?
One child feels that you aren’t concerned about their health because it doesn’t affect you. How do you respond to that?
If the plant is 60% Chinese-owned, how much say will New Zealanders have in the future of the waste burning?
Aloha,
Kendall
On 14/01/2025, at 12:15 PM, 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz> wrote:
Kia ora Kendall,
Thanks for your email.
under the Official Information Act 1982
Letting you know that this media query has been transferred to me as the response sits with Minister Simmonds as Minister for the Environment.
I will come back to you with a response as soon as possible – this will be within 24 hours.
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
<image002.jpg>
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
Press Secretary | Office of Hon. Penny Simmonds
Minister for the Environment | Tertiary Education & Skills
Associate Minister for Social Development & Employment
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
Released Email: 9(2)(a) @parliament.govt.nz Website: www.Beehive.govt.nz
Private Bag 18041, Parliament Buildings, Wellington 6160, New Zealand
Authorised by Hon Penny Simmonds, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
From: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Sent: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 11:25 AM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: Re: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
Sure, here’s a list of questions around the concerns posed by the kids that were interviewed:
How toxic is the fly ash that will be generated by the plant?
How do you plan to get rid of the fly ash, and how can you guarantee that ash disposal will be safe for the community and
animals in the years to come?
How will the waste incinerator plant gaseous pollution from reaching the Waimate communities, especially their school,
which is downwind of the plant site?
How will the roads be protected from the increased traffic of heavy trucks?
Can the fumes generated by the plant affect cow milk production and newborn calves?
One child feels that you aren’t concerned about their health because it doesn’t affect you. How do you respond to that?
If the plant is 60% Chinese-owned how much say for New Zealanders have in the future of the waste burning?
Thank you very much!
Kendall
<image001.jpg>
On 13/01/2025, at 1:09 PM, 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz> wrote:
Hi Kendall
Looking more closely at your query I think you might need to be a bit more specific about what you're after - what
are the concerns being expressed? And do you have specific questions?
It may be this query is not best placed with this office, but once I have more info from you I will be able to figure it
out.
Thanks
Felix
<Outlook-
9(2)(a)
Press Secretary | Office of Hon. Nicola Willis
4pzmm2av.png>
Minister of Finance
Minister for the Public Service
Minister for Social Investment
Associate Minister of Climate Change
M9(2)(a)
E: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz
Parliament Buildings, Wellington 6160, New Zealand
From: Kendall Kanoa Kukahiko <[email address]>
Sent: Monday, January 13, 2025 12:39 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: Re: SIRRL Waste Incinerator Story
under the Official Information Act 1982
Hello 9(2)(a)
I hope you had a very restful holiday! Thank you for taking the time to let me know you were out of the office last week. We decided to
push the story a bit to run next week instead of this week. Would it be possible for her to comment?
Aloha,
Kendall
<Kendall.Email.Sig.jpg>
On 8/01/2025, at 1:07 PM, 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz> wrote:
Released Hi Kendall
Regarding your query - it is currently the Government summer shut down period. I'll be back at work next week and able
to assist with your query then.
In the meantime for urgent queries contact the duty press secretary - your organisation (NZME) will have access to this
list.
Thanks
From:
9(2)(a)
To:
Penny Simmonds
Cc:
9(2)(a)
Subject:
RE: SIGN OFF TODAY: response to media on Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but
it’s still a turd”
Date:
Monday, 24 February 2025 2:14:00 PM
Thanks – will send now.
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: Penny Simmonds <[email address]>
Sent: Monday, 24 February 2025 2:02 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: Re: SIGN OFF TODAY: response to media on Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a
turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Yes good to go thanks
Get Outlook for Android
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Monday, February 24, 2025 1:10:53 PM
To: Penny Simmonds <[email address]>
Cc: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: SIGN OFF TODAY: response to media on Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a
turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi Minister,
Please see finalised response below for your sign off today.
MfE have reviewed and signed off this response already.
Ngā mihi,
under the Official Information Act 1982
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
Kia ora 9(2)(a)
Thanks for your email.
Released
Please see the statement below in response to your query.
Statement from Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment
“I am aware that there is considerable interest in this proposal, especially from Waipā District
residents.
“I am mindful that the submission process for this proposal, managed by the Board of Inquiry that was
established for this process, is still in progress.
“It is important that this independent process takes place as intended within the parameters of the
Resource Management Act.”
Background information
This information about Boards of Inquiry that are established by the Minister for the Environment may
also be useful.
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 12:07 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi team,
PMO received this query which has been passed through to us. I’m asking what the
deadline is on the media query. Could we please get a response through the regular
processes, and media response prepared for Chris Gardner, with a deadline of 4pm today?
9(2)(a) what are your thoughts on this?
Thanks,
9(2)(a)
From: Chris Gardner <[email address]>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 9:05 AM
under the Official Information Act 1982
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi 9(2)(a)
We have received the following email.
Released
Is the Prime Minister able to answer Mr Fitzpatrick’s questions?
Will he conduct a review?
Ngā mihi | Kind regards
Chris Gardner
Senior Writer - GOOD LOCAL MEDIA LTD
M: 9(2)(a)
E: [email address]
W: cambridgenews.nz teawamutunews.nz wbn.co.nz
CAMBRIDGE NEWS | KING COUNTRY NEWS | TE AWAMUTU NEWS | COUNTRYLIFE | KING
COUNTRY FARMER | WAIKATO BUSINESS NEWS
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, 20 February 2025 5:27 pm
To: Christopher Luxon <[email address]>
Subject: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Dear Prime Minister
I am a local resident and business owner with interests in sheep, bees, dairy cattle,
grazing, building, property development, and property investment and I believe our
family have contributed significantly to the local and national community and
economy over the years however I am currently very disappointed in the way in
which our community and our companies are suffering as a result of the Waste to
Energy Proposal - to take a quote from an earlier submission “you can roll a turd in
glitter but it’s still a turd”
On 17 August 2024, the Minister for the Environment “called in” the resource
consent application for the Incinerator- This means it will be decided as a proposal of
national significance under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).
At todays pre hearing EPA meeting I understood that the board of inquiry does not
have the authority to commission or request the applicant supplies comprehensive
independent reviews / reports for all of the impacts highlighted in the submissions
and all of the issues raised by councils and other authorities even though this is not a
under the Official Information Act 1982
permitted activity under the current district plan. For example the key issues raised
by Waipa DC,Fonterra, Waikato Thoroughbred Racing Board, FENZ, Tainui and
even my own submission:
https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/FileAPI/proposal/NSP000048/Key-Issues-reports-
manual/Waipa-District-Council-Key-Issues-Report-1-November-2024.pdf
Released
In addition other areas for independent reporting would include:
● Hazardous substances
● Risk, likelihood and consequences including fire, explosion and floods
● Economic development and impact locally and nationally as highlighted by
Fonterra
● Human health
● Land and water contamination including the management of collected /used
contaminated water
● Climate change and impacts
● Air quality
My question is how do we expect the BoI to make an informed decision on
something of such local and national significance without this information?
I appreciate that there is a process to follow but as the leader of our country I am
asking you if you are prepared to step in and review this as the potential impacts and
risks to our country highlighted by Waipa DC,Fonterra, FENZ and Tainui and
hundreds of other submissions are massive and in my opinion something that
warrants intervention.
To me this is more important than whether or not classic cars get warranted every 6
months or every year and deserves a comprehensive review and a national strategy.
Happy to discuss anytime and look forward to a positive response that puts an end to
this ludicrous proposal so we can all get on with helping to turn the economy around
and improving everyone’s quality of life.
Regards
9(2)(a)
Get Outlook for iOS
under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
Authorised by Hon Penny Simmonds, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
From: Chris Gardner <[email address]>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 9:05 AM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi Matt,
We have received the following email.
Is the Prime Minister able to answer Mr Fitzpatrick’s questions?
Will he conduct a review?
Ngā mihi | Kind regards
Chris Gardner
Senior Writer - GOOD LOCAL MEDIA LTD
M: 9(2)(a)
E: [email address]
W: cambridgenews.nz teawamutunews.nz wbn.co.nz
CAMBRIDGE NEWS | KING COUNTRY NEWS | TE AWAMUTU NEWS | COUNTRYLIFE | KING
COUNTRY FARMER | WAIKATO BUSINESS NEWS
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, 20 February 2025 5:27 pm
To: Christopher Luxon <[email address]>
Subject: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
under the Official Information Act 1982
Dear Prime Minister
I am a local resident and business owner with interests in sheep, bees, dairy cattle,
grazing, building, property development, and property investment and I believe our
family have contributed significantly to the local and national community and
economy over the years however I am currently very disappointed in the way in
which our community and our companies are suffering as a result of the Waste to
Energy Proposal - to take a quote from an earlier submission “you can roll a turd in
Released
glitter but it’s still a turd”
On 17 August 2024, the Minister for the Environment “called in” the resource
consent application for the Incinerator- This means it will be decided as a proposal of
national significance under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).
At todays pre hearing EPA meeting I understood that the board of inquiry does not
have the authority to commission or request the applicant supplies comprehensive
independent reviews / reports for all of the impacts highlighted in the submissions
and all of the issues raised by councils and other authorities even though this is not a
permitted activity under the current district plan. For example the key issues raised
by Waipa DC,Fonterra, Waikato Thoroughbred Racing Board, FENZ, Tainui and
even my own submission:
https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/FileAPI/proposal/NSP000048/Key-Issues-reports-
manual/Waipa-District-Council-Key-Issues-Report-1-November-2024.pdf
In addition other areas for independent reporting would include:
● Hazardous substances
● Risk, likelihood and consequences including fire, explosion and floods
● Economic development and impact locally and nationally as highlighted by
Fonterra
● Human health
● Land and water contamination including the management of collected /used
contaminated water
● Climate change and impacts
● Air quality
My question is how do we expect the BoI to make an informed decision on
something of such local and national significance without this information?
I appreciate that there is a process to follow but as the leader of our country I am
asking you if you are prepared to step in and review this as the potential impacts and
risks to our country highlighted by Waipa DC,Fonterra, FENZ and Tainui and
hundreds of other submissions are massive and in my opinion something that
warrants intervention.
under the Official Information Act 1982
To me this is more important than whether or not classic cars get warranted every 6
months or every year and deserves a comprehensive review and a national strategy.
Happy to discuss anytime and look forward to a positive response that puts an end to
this ludicrous proposal so we can all get on with helping to turn the economy around
and improving everyone’s quality of life.
Released
Regards
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
Get Outlook for iOS
under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
From:
9(2)(a)
To:
Subject:
RE: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Date:
Monday, 24 February 2025 10:28:00 AM
Attachments:
image001.png
image002.png
Thanks 9(2)(a)
Ngā mihi,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
(she/her)
ce of Hon Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Monday, 24 February 2025 9:55 AM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hey 9(2)(a)
Here’s the entire trail for this waste to energy media query
Thanks,
9(2)(a)
9(2)(a)
Press Secretary (Roving)
P: 9(2)(a)
E: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 4:44 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: RE: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
under the Official Information Act 1982
Hi 9(2)(a)
Just received the response:
Background
Released
On 17 August 2024, the Minister for the Environment 'called in' the resource
consent applications for a waste-to-energy plant in Te Awamutu and referred it
to a Board of Inquiry for decision.
The Board of Inquiry was appointed on 26 November 2024.
Currently, the Board of Inquiry is considering submissions on this proposal.
Submitters will be able to speak to their submission at the Hearing that is
schedule for June 2025.
Yesterday a pre-hearing meeting took place to establish matters of procedure
leading up to the hearing and the hearing itself.
Most submissions are opposed to the proposed plant.
The EPA acts as secretariat to the Board of Inquiry. It has no influence over any
decision the Board might make on this proposal.
Lines to support a response the media query
I am aware that there is considerable interest in this proposal, especially from
Waipā District residents.
I am mindful that the submission process for this proposal, managed by the
Board of Inquiry that was established for this process, is still in progress.
It is important that this independent process takes place as intended within the
parameters of the Resource Management Act.
This information about Boards of Inquiry that are established by the Minister for
the Environment might be useful.
EPA’s response to Mr Gardner (sent)
As you’re aware, the purpose of yesterday's pre-hearing meeting was to iron out the
procedural aspects leading up to the hearing itself. The Board of Inquiry minute, due out
shortly, will address the issues raised at the pre-hearing meeting including the question
about independent review and reports. The Board minutes are published here.
You can read more about how Boards of Inquiry operate within the proposals of national
significance process here. More specific information about the Te Awamutu Waste to
Energy Plant consultation process is available here.
Hope that suffices.
Kind regards,under the Official Information Act 1982
9(2)(a)
| Private Secretary Environment
Office of Hon Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 4:18 PM
Released
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: RE: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi 9(2)(a)
Thanks for the call earlier – have just heard back from the journalist. Monday will be fine for
a response.
Thanks,
9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 12:56 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: RE: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi 9(2)(a)
9(2)(a) is on leave today, so unlikely to receive a response.
Out of scope (date range)
Let me know if any of the above materials are helpful. I’ll hold off commissioning until
you can confirm deadlines for me.
Thanks,
9(2)(a)
| Private Secretary Environment
under the Official Information Act 1982
Office of Hon Penny Simmonds
Mobile: 9(2)(a)
From: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 12:07 PM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>; 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Released
Hi team,
PMO received this query which has been passed through to us. I’m asking what the
deadline is on the media query. Could we please get a response through the regular
processes, and media response prepared for Chris Gardner, with a deadline of 4pm today?
9(2)(a) what are your thoughts on this?
Thanks,
9(2)(a)
From: Chris Gardner <[email address]>
Sent: Friday, 21 February 2025 9:05 AM
To: 9(2)(a)
@parliament.govt.nz>
Subject: FW: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Hi Matt,
We have received the following email.
Is the Prime Minister able to answer Mr Fitzpatrick’s questions?
Will he conduct a review?
Ngā mihi
| Kind regards
Chris Gardner
Senior Writer - GOOD LOCAL MEDIA LTD
M: 9(2)(a)
E: [email address]
W: cambridgenews.nz teawamutunews.nz wbn.co.nz
CAMBRIDGE NEWS | KING COUNTRY NEWS | TE AWAMUTU NEWS | COUNTRYLIFE | KING
COUNTRY FARMER | WAIKATO BUSINESS NEWS
under the Official Information Act 1982
From: 9(2)(a)
Sent: Thursday, 20 February 2025 5:27 pm
To: Christopher Luxon <[email address]>
Subject: Waste to energy incinerator- “you can roll a turd in glitter but it’s still a turd”
Dear Prime Minister
Released
I am a local resident and business owner with interests in sheep, bees, dairy cattle,
grazing, building, property development, and property investment and I believe our
family have contributed significantly to the local and national community and
economy over the years however I am currently very disappointed in the way in
which our community and our companies are suffering as a result of the Waste to
Energy Proposal - to take a quote from an earlier submission “you can roll a turd in
glitter but it’s still a turd”
On 17 August 2024, the Minister for the Environment “called in” the resource
consent application for the Incinerator- This means it will be decided as a proposal of
national significance under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).
At todays pre hearing EPA meeting I understood that the board of inquiry does not
have the authority to commission or request the applicant supplies comprehensive
independent reviews / reports for all of the impacts highlighted in the submissions
and all of the issues raised by councils and other authorities even though this is not a
permitted activity under the current district plan. For example the key issues raised
by Waipa DC,Fonterra, Waikato Thoroughbred Racing Board, FENZ, Tainui and
even my own submission:
https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/FileAPI/proposal/NSP000048/Key-Issues-reports-
manual/Waipa-District-Council-Key-Issues-Report-1-November-2024.pdf
In addition other areas for independent reporting would include:
● Hazardous substances
● Risk, likelihood and consequences including fire, explosion and floods
● Economic development and impact locally and nationally as highlighted by
Fonterra
● Human health
● Land and water contamination including the management of collected /used
contaminated water
● Climate change and impacts
● Air quality
My question is how do we expect the BoI to make an informed decision on
something of such local and national significance without this information?
under the Official Information Act 1982
I appreciate that there is a process to follow but as the leader of our country I am
asking you if you are prepared to step in and review this as the potential impacts and
risks to our country highlighted by Waipa DC,Fonterra, FENZ and Tainui and
hundreds of other submissions are massive and in my opinion something that
warrants intervention.
To me this is more important than whether or not classic cars get warranted every 6
Released
months or every year and deserves a comprehensive review and a national strategy.
Happy to discuss anytime and look forward to a positive response that puts an end to
this ludicrous proposal so we can all get on with helping to turn the economy around
and improving everyone’s quality of life.
Regards
9(2)(a)
Get Outlook for iOS
under the Official Information Act 1982
Released
