Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has confirmed the purchase of 8.3 hectares of land adjacent to the Wānaka transfer station and Wastebusters sites.

QLDC solid waste contracts manager Laura Gledhill said the acquisition will play a pivotal role in advancing waste management practices within the Upper Clutha.

"Purchasing this land provides an opportunity to invest in a new fit-for-purpose transfer station in Wānaka, replacing the neighbouring facility,” Laura said. 

“Work on designing this facility is already underway.” 

The site’s size provides significant potential to accommodate a range of complementary waste minimisation activities in addition to enhancing the existing transfer station.     

The site purchased is 8.3 hectares adjacent to Wastebusters.

“This site complements existing waste facilities and enables current services to be expanded to accommodate the future needs of the growing Upper Clutha communities,” Laura said.

“Acquiring this strategic site provides a huge boost towards the district’s waste minimisation goals.” 

The site is presently operated by Wānaka Greenwaste and Landscaping Supplies and the council said a lease is in place until September 2027.

“Council recognises the important service the company [Wānaka Greenwaste and Landscaping Supplies] provides to the growing community,” QLDC Media & Channels Advisor Sam White told the Wānaka App. 

“With central government signalling that organic waste may soon be banned from landfill, having a locally accessible facility like this will certainly help achieve this goal.”

The land cost $3.36M. 

PHOTO: Wānaka App