Urban waste collection changes coming Monday 29 July

South Waikato District Council is introducing two changes to its rubbish and recycling service starting Monday 29 July.

“From Monday 29 July, Council is moving to a five day a week collection for urban waste collections, both rubbish and recycling,” said Phil Burt, Council’s Senior Contract Engineer. “Currently Council collects Tuesday through Friday, not utilising Mondays, but due to waste volumes we need to introduce a collection on Mondays.”

Urban residents in Arapuni and Tīrau will need to put their rubbish and recycling out on the kerbside on Mondays, starting 29 July. Council will be doing mail drops to residents in these townships. Collection areas in Putāruru and Tokoroa are not affected by a day change.

In addition, and also in response to recycling volumes, we will be starting urban waste collections from 7.30am.

“This earlier start time is necessary for the team to get around all the streets in the specific zones by close of business each day,” continued Mr Burt. “All residents need to note that this earlier start time applies to both rubbish bags and recycling crates and to all collection areas - Arapuni, Tīrau, Putāruru and Tokoroa.”

“Council is mindful that changing days for Arapuni and Tīrau residents and the earlier start time for all urban residents can be difficult to remember,” said Mr Burt. “For the month of August we will work together to sweep up for those residents who miss the start time and/or forget their day has changed.”

Council will assess the continued need for the sweep vehicle after the first fortnight in service.

“Residents are encouraged to contact Council on 07 885 0340 if they forget and miss out. The team will do its best to sweep up in the weeks following the two changes,” said Kerry Fabrie, Council’s Communications Manager. “Residents who haven’t already installed Council’s mobile phone app Antenno, are encouraged to do so. It’s free to download, log your specific address and we will send you reminders about your new collection day and new start time. Just to make the changes that much easier to get to grips with!”

There is no change to the management nor operating days and times for the Tokoroa Landfill, Putāruru Transfer Station and Croad Place Recycling facility. There is also no change to Council’s partnership with the South Waikato Achievement Trust. ENDS. Words: 388