Carter Holt Harvey (CHH) and Norske Skog Tasman have resource consent renewal for their Kawerau pulp and paper mill operations for a period of 25 years – subject to conditions.
Carter Holt Harvey's resource consent application for a new wood waste landfill was also granted for 25 years.

The river as viewed from Google Earth.

The hearings panel agreed that renewing the consents is appropriate because of the value of the existing investment.
It also took account of scientific evidence that there are no significant effects on the aquatic ecology. The new consents require the mill operators to reduce adverse effects over time.
The commissioners say 'exceptional circumstances” under section 107 of the RMA, mean consent to continue polluting the river can be granted in spite of the fact the discharge produces a conspicuous change in colour and visual clarity downstream of the mixing zone.
The exceptional circumstances finding is qualified by a statement that this should not endure across time without limit.
'We accept that the matter of river colour as a consequence of the treatment system discharge is offensive to a number of parties, and that this gives rise to genuine concerns about the health and welfare (both cultural and biological) of the river. However, the evidence does not support that concern and certainly not to the extent that a decision to refuse consent necessarily ensues,” the commissioners say in a statement.
'In our view, however, this matter alone is not sufficient to outweigh the considerable economic and social benefits provided throughout the forestry production sector by the mill and its activities.”
The hearings commissioners are independent consultants David Hill (Chairman) and Alan Bickers, Environment Bay of Plenty Councillor Robin Ford and Whakatane District Councillor Russell Orr.
Environment Bay of Plenty Councillor Robin Ford says there will be regular reviews by an independent peer review panel, with the aim to reduce the discolouring of the water through the use of the best available technology and practices.

'This will serve to ensure that practicable advances in technology are kept in front of mind by both applicant CHH and Norkse Skog Tasman, and the regulator Environment BOP throughout the term of the consents.”
The 25 year consent is 10 less than CHH and Norske Skog applied for.
The hearing was held in August at Environment Bay of Plenty in Whakat?ne. Submitters have 15 working days to lodge an appeal with the Environment Court.