Peel Forest Closed Landfill – Investigation and Remediation

Timaru District Council engaged PDP to address ongoing erosion at the Peel Forest closed landfill, where waste was being exposed and a high risk of it being released into the Rangitata River. Our first priority was to assist with emergency works to stabilise the site and implement river engineering measures to redirect flows away from the eroding terrace.

PDP then undertook detailed investigations to delineate the waste, assess leachate and landfill gas risks, and evaluate long-term remediation options. We completed a Remedial Options Assessment and River Erosion Risk Assessment, supporting the selection of full waste removal as the most resilient solution. Our team also helped secure Ministry for the Environment funding through the Contaminated Sites and Vulnerable Landfills Fund.

To enable remediation, PDP prepared the Remedial Action Plan, dust management controls, and resource consent applications, alongside extensive engagement with LINZ, neighbouring landowners, Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua, and the Peel Forest community. Once consents were granted, we assisted with procurement of the contractor and supervised the remedial earthworks, including material segregation and reuse where feasible.

PDP also provided stormwater and geotechnical design input to support excavation and final landform development. Following waste removal, we will complete validation sampling and prepare the Site Validation Report. Our multidisciplinary approach has enabled coordinated project delivery, meeting timeframes and supporting effective environmental outcomes for the site and surrounding community.