Increasing evidence from overseas as well as New Zealand suggests some emerging organic contaminants (EOCs) may cause deleterious environmental effects. With no current national strategy on EOCs, it is necessary for each Regional Council to provide their own impetus to ensure they are meeting their obligations for environmental protection. This report, initiated by Auckland Council, Environment Canterbury Regional Council, and Greater Wellington Regional Council updates the current state of knowledge around efforts to promote the establishment of a national strategy to identify EOC research priorities, along with a review of national and international legislation, guidelines and research on EOCs. The report also provide recommendations for a targeted approach to monitor EOCs in the urban environment, primarily (but not restricted to) sediments.