FAQs

What should I do with items that can't go in any of my wheelie bins?

To view disposal options for different materials view our recycling contacts web page

What happens if my bin is not emptied?

Phone the Council on (03) 687 7200 or email customer@timdc.govt.nz

What should I do if my bin is stickered as too heavy?

You can take out any extra recycling or rubbish and drop it off at your local Transfer Station. You could also remove some of the bin contents, store it, and wait until your bin is next emptied to put it back in.

Why doesn't the blue bin have a lid?

The lids on wheelie bins are to stop light rubbish blowing out of the bin, and to contain smells from rubbish and organic waste. Neither of these is an issue with a glass only collection. Lids are also a common point of failure on bins, so in order to keep costs to ratepayers down we haven't added an unnecessary lid to the bin.

How much can I put in my bin?

The maximum weight for any bin is 80kg. The bin that is most likely to be too heavy is your green organics bin. Soil is heavy so make sure you shake it off weeds before putting them in your bin. Distribute weight by placing heavier items at the top of the bin. Items in your yellow recycling bin should be no bigger than 300mm x 300mm (three litre capacity)

What happens if my collection is on a public holiday?

Bins are normally collected as usual on public holidays. Check the TDC Website, Noticeboard in the Courier Website, or phone the Council on (03) 687 7200 to find out any changes to your collection day.

How much does my weekly collection cost?

The cost appears on your rates as a Waste Management charge. This may change year to year. Refer to the Solid Waste Fees and Charges page for current charges.

How do I get an extra bin if I need one?

Phone our customer services team on (03) 687 7200.

Are there any other options apart from the standard size bins. and how do I change?

Yes, there are options available. Additional bins or different sized bins are available upon request to the Council. A charge may apply for the bins.

What happens to my collected recycling, glass, organic material and waste?

All material is taken to Redruth Eco-depot. Clean recyclables are sorted and sold to markets, many of which are in New Zealand. Organic material is made into compost, which is available for sale in bags at transfer stations or in bulk at Redruth, Geraldine and Temuka Transfer Stations. Waste is compacted and deposited in Redruth Landfill. Glass is collected and sent to be made into bottles for the New Zealand wine industry.

What happens if I move house?

The bins belong to the property and will need to be left behind. If your new property does not have wheelie bins, phone (03) 687 7200.

What if someone steals my bin or it is lost or damaged?

Phone Council on (03) 687 7200.

Where do I store my bin?

Common places that people store their bins until collection include beside their garage, the side of the driveway or at the back of their house. Your bin cannot be stored on the kerbside or footpath.

What if I struggle with moving my bin to the kerbside (e.g mobility issues)?

If a family member or neighbour is not able to help you, phone the Council on (03) 687 7200.

What should I do if I don't live in a kerbside collection zone?

You will need to either take your recycling and rubbish to your local transfer station or organise private collection.

How can I keep my wheelie bins clean?

Your yellow recycling bin should not get too dirty as the recycling going into it must be clean.

Bins can also be rinsed clean and stored upside down on your lawn to drain and dry.

Where can I learn more about waste and recycling services?

The One Planet website provides key links about New Zealand Council waste and recycling services. It also offers information and videos on the waste hierarchy and waste minimisation. The website acts as a portal providing many links to environmental organisations and related websites. It will tell you about local resource recovery, the global implications of waste, and the importance of everyone playing their part.

Last updated: 06 Nov 2024