Wastebusters is marking its 25th birthday by celebrating quarter of a century of real recycling, reused treasures, and zero waste mahi with 25 percent off and a community celebration day this Saturday (September 20).

“We’ll share cake, reminisce, and celebrate our amazing community - we couldn’t have made it to 25 without you,” Wastebusters general manager Gina Dempster said.

She said the celebration was also a chance for supporters to share their ideas and dreams for the future of Wastebusters.

"For 25 years, with our community behind us, we have built something iconic together. Now, we're asking you to join us as we look to the next chapter."

With the town growing fast, the current Wastebusters site is bursting at the seams, and more people and more treasures mean the need for a bigger, better space, Gina said.

This has sparked the vision for Wastebusters 2.0 - a plan for a future-proofed site with more room for treasures, a dedicated hub for construction and demolition recycling, spaces for repair and upcycling, and car-free shopping zones so the community enterprise can multiply their impact for the next generation.

Wastebusters' bid for more land and vision for the future has received unanimous support from the Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board.

The community will get to show their support, share their ideas and tell their own personal ‘Wasties’ story at the upcoming community celebration day.

“We’re inviting everyone to come along to our Community Celebration Day, show your support, share your ideas for Wasties 2.0, eat cake and celebrate with us,” Gina said.

“With community support, Wastebusters can help keep resources in use, and secure our future for the next 25 years and beyond.”

At Saturday’s celebrations Lions Wānaka will be there with their BBQ, Cat Rescue Wānaka will be running a bake sale, and Night Cat Coffee Bar will be serving hot drinks. Between 3–5 pm, the celebrations kick off with speeches, cake, and refreshments, plus the launch of a special 25th anniversary collaboration beer by b.effect, Rhyme & Reason, and Ground Up.

PHOTO: Supplied