Extract:

Introduction

We are committed to continuously collecting air quality data to ensure compliance with national standards and aid policy development and evaluation. The data we collect provides a better understanding of ambient air quality in the region, including spatial and temporal variations. To provide regular updates on air quality in Auckland, this report presents a monthly summary. The report is divided into four sections, with sections A and B featuring tables and graphics that illustrate air quality status in the Auckland region based on data collected from continuous monitoring sites across the region.

For this edition, section C focuses on one monitoring site, the Khyber Pass Road. Section D provides monthly averages for 2023 and the past two to five years of pollutant concentrations (when data is available). The monthly update is prepared using validated data, which is typically available one month after raw data collection. This report covers data up to 31 January 2023. By providing regular updates on air quality, Auckland Council aims to promote awareness and encourage actions to improve air quality in the region.

Summary

All monitoring sites have recorded lower concentrations of particulate matter (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) compared to the previous year. This reduction can be attributed to increased rainfall in January, resulting in reduced airborne particulates.

As expected, the city centre sites have recorded the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) concentrations, though these levels are lower than the same period in the previous year.

There has been a significant decrease of 73% in carbon monoxide (CO) average concentration measured at the Khyber Pass Road monitoring site compared to the same period in the previous year. This decrease can be attributed to the reduction in traffic in that area. According to Auckland Transport's seven-day traffic count data, the traffic volume in 2022 decreased compared to 2021, from 130,388 to 125,249 vehicles.

It is important to note that air quality at a monitoring site can vary from year to year due to weather and other influences. For a trend analysis of change, please see Table 2 and Auckland air quality report, October 2021.

Overall, the report highlights that there have been improvements in some areas such as PM and CO concentrations. However, continued monitoring and analysis are necessary to ensure sustained progress and identify areas that require further action.

Read the frequently asked questions about the air quality monitoring in the Auckland region.

For more information or questions, please send inquiries to: environmentaldata@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Auckland Council, March 2023

2022 reports (selected)

October

November

December