What is illegal dumping and why is it a problem?
Published on Monday, 5 May 2025
Illegal rubbish dumping (fly tipping) costs us all. Together, let's keep the Tararua District beautiful.
What is illegal dumping?
The dumping of rubbish is considered to be illegal when people discard their rubbish down a bank or stream, at laybys and roadsides, or household rubbish in town litterbins.
Illegal rubbish dumping (fly tipping) costs us all. It's unfair to everyone and detracts from the beauty of our District. It costs the ratepayer, because the Council must meet the expense of rubbish removal, follow up complaints, and prosecute people for illegal dumping.
If you are caught illegally dumping rubbish, under the Litter Act 1979 you may be liable for an infringement of up to $400.00.
Why is illegal dumping a problem?
Dumped waste can be dangerous to people, particularly when it includes sharp objects, asbestos and glass. Dumped materials can also harm the local environment by endangering wildlife, aquatic life, including damaging plants, soil and waterways.
Where can I dispose of my rubbish legally?
The Tararua District has five transfer stations / landfills and ten community recycling centres across the District.
For more information on these facilities, please visit our website www.tararuadc.govt.nz/services/rubbish_recycling
What can you do?
If you notice someone dumping rubbish illegally, please contact us and let us know:
- Where the rubbish has been dumped
- Whether it appears to be dangerous and presents a potential health hazard, e.g., hazardous goods or animal remains
- Who dumped the rubbish, i.e., a vehicle's licence plate
Use the Antenno app for quick and easy reporting
Our Antenno app is ideal to report instances of illegal dumping. If you have not downloaded Antenno yet you can find out more at:
https://www.tararuadc.govt.nz/contact-us/antenno
Council is happy to answer any questions you may have regarding illegal rubbish dumping. You can get in touch with the Council team by phoning 06 374 4080 or 06 376 0110, alternatively you can email info@tararuadc.govt.nz.