B-7 – Area 7 - Assessment of Environmental Effects 134 Discharge Receiving Environment Alternative Methods of Discharge ponds would therefore provide limited additional environmental benefit. A further alternative considered was the discharge of untreated discharges to the closest waterbody. This option was dismissed from the outset due to the potentially significant adverse effects on water quality and instream values (including its life-supporting capacity and ecosystem health). This option also does not align with OGNZL’s directive to achieve a positive net gain for all activities associated with the WNP. To discharge overburden to land to construct, operate and rehabilitate TSF3 and the associated haul road and Collection Ponds. To discharge overburden to land in the TSF3 Topsoil Stockpiles. Refer to Section 2 (Existing Environment) and Section 5 (Assessment of Effects) of this AEE. Consideration was given to a range of site designs and locations as part of the optioneering and site selection process undertaken by EGL. These options are presented in EGL (2022a). When technical, environmental,216 socio- economic217 and operational218 requirements were taken into consideration, the current location and method for tailings management was identified as being the most appropriate given the nature of the discharges and the sensitivity of the receiving environment. To discharge tailings into TSF3. To discharge seepage from TSF3 into the ground. Refer to Section 5.5 (Groundwater and Surface Water). Seepage from TSF3 will be intercepted and diverted to the WTP for treatment prior to discharge into the Ohinemuri Stream (utilising existing resource consents). Notwithstanding this, residual seepage will still enter groundwater. To discharge clean water to the Ruahorehore Stream from TSF3 following closure. Refer to Section 2.14 (Hydrology) of this AEE. The closure plan for TSF3 includes a closure pond / wetland within the impoundment. Once water quality in that pond is suitable for direct 216 Including consideration of terrestrial ecosystems, aquatic ecosystems, groundwater, surface water, significant natural areas, dust and noise. 217 Including consideration of social impact. 218 Including consideration of future ore resource, geotechnical matters, geochemical matters, constructability, operability, storage capacity and expansion potential, and project schedule.
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