The Editor

In response to the item regarding composting in the red zone and the associated smell, 5 August. 

I have been visiting the site regularly over the past three years to gauge the success of this localised composting concept and support the establishment of the associated biota nodes, small hubs supporting native biodiversity, by the team and students of Te Pa o Rākaihautū.

I too, like the local rangers have only ever smelt the earthy green waste smell, however, I do not live beside it.

I am reminded of the sickening smell of decaying animal products which were a significant issue at the Bromley organic processing plant and around the sewerage ponds where the material was spread. Therefore, it is pleasing that the Trust no longer accepts food scraps, as the idea of creating our own local compost and mulch at our restoration projects is nothing short of awesome.

Recycle, re-use, reduce.

Greg Byrnes