The Whakatane District Council is trying to find a solution to a smelly dilemma.

Odour emissions are causing problems at the Te Tahi Street transfer station in Whakatane.

Acting infrastructure general manager Paula Chapman says the council is aware the odour emissions can have a negative impact on the transfer station's neighbours and staff are working to address the issue.

'In conjunction with Waste Management Limited, the transfer station operations contractor, we've made a number of operating and structural changes at the facility in recent months to reduce emissions.

'These include installing a misting system, introducing a Sunday collection, carrying out bi-weekly waste audits, the establishment of an off-site offal pit and installing door disablers so only one door is open at any given time.”

Paula says they've also turned away contractors with odorous loads, placed mesh wind barriers over the rear vents and installed a bird scarer.

'Although these improvements have made a difference, we know there's still an issue with odour emissions from time to time.”

Council staff are now working through proposals from odour experts in an effort to minimise any odour issues outside the immediate area of the transfer station.

Paula says once these have been reviewed, a recommended course of action will be presented for council approval, but it may take a few months for a workable solution to be implemented.

'We're working closely with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and keeping them informed of each step we are taking.

'We'll also be liaising with the affected neighbours and ensuring they are aware of any developments.”