Waste firm chases fast-track nod for Dome Valley dump

Opponents of the proposed landfill protest in central Auckland in 2020. Photo: RNZ / Jogai Bhatt

A waste disposal company is seeking to fast-track plans for a controversial landfill north of Auckland that has been delayed by legal proceedings for several years.

The Auckland Regional Landfill is planned to replace the Redvale landfill, which is consented to take rubbish only until the end of 2028.

Opponents to the new Dome Valley landfill have raised concerns it could damage the Kaipara and Hōteo rivers.

The proposed Waste Management New Zealand landfill was consented in 2021 but has been delayed by several legal appeals since.

In 2024, Forest and Bird and Ngāti Whātua made separate appeals against the Environment Court's decision to allow the landfill to go ahead.

In 2026, Forest and Bird was granted leave to appeal part of the decision.

Now, Waste Management New Zealand will seek approval for the dump under the government's fast-track process.

"The project has already been through extensive environmental assessment, engagement and consent processes. Seeking referral provides an additional pathway ... and may help reduce further delays," it said.

The company said it would begin engaging directly with iwi, councils, regulators and affected communities.

"We anticipate formally lodging with Minister Chris Bishop in early July."

Hundreds of opponents to a massive landfill earmarked for Auckland's Dome Valley marched through the city centre today with some messaging for mayor Phill Goff: scrap the dump, or relocate it.

Ngāti Whātua and Forest and Bird have both taken separate appeals to the Auckland High Court against the decision to allow the landfill consent to go ahead.

Legal action over a controversial mega-dump in Auckland's Dome Valley is continuing, with Forest and Bird granted leave to appeal part of the decision to approve the landfill.