Initial findings revealed odours had been detected as far as Coughlan Rd, Lakeview Rd, Redwood Drive, Mangatarata Rd and Ford Rd, that there was more than one source of odour, and that mostly, odours were being detected in fine and still weather conditions and vary from noticeable to very offensive.
One of the sources of the odour is the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Waipukurau, where a monitoring trailer has been placed on site.
Actions to address this also include CCTV on Mt Herbert Rd to survey within the pipes, and whether something was contributing to the odour issue.
The outlet structure of the anaerobic pond was now covered, and a sleeve had been placed on the pipe outlet from the anaerobic pond. The liquid (partially treated wastewater) which previously cascaded from the anaerobic pond was now being fed through the sleeve and directed under water into the storm water balance pond.
In response, local residents say they hope these actions are enough to finally stop the stench.
Longtime CHB resident Emma Mason-Smith said it had been known the odour was coming from the pond, and the actions so far had not reduced the smell.
Ms Mason-Smith, who operates a hairdressing business from her home on Mt Herbert Rd near the ponds, said the council's previous lack of action had made her lose trust in it.
"It's taken us six months of complaining to get them to do something. I'm prepared to work with the council, but I don't have a lot of faith," she said.
"I'm crossing my fingers its going to get better, because we've had enough."
Another Mt Herbert Rd resident, Jo Brabyn - who previously complained about the smell - was glad the council were now addressing the issue.
"I think [the council] are doing everything they possibly can," she said. "Getting the issue out in the public definitely helped."
Over the next four weeks the council intend to undertake further investigations at both the treatment plant, and beyond it.
More actions were proposed beyond four weeks. In a statement, the council warned the actions undertaken would not be an overnight fix.
"From the time wastewater enters the treatment process, it takes 21 to 28 days for it to go through the processing system all the way through to the filters and UV system and then discharged.
"Council appreciates that this is an extremely frustrating time for many residents and thanks residents for their ongoing patience and understanding."
- Any noticeable or offensive odours should be reported through the online survey form at www.chbdc.govt.nz. Printed forms are available at the council office in Waipawa and both libraries.