Kerbside Collections, Recycling Centres & Rural Recycling

Our kerbside rubbish and recycling services help keep our district clean while supporting waste minimisation and recycling. From 1 July 2026, Council's new waste and recycling contractor, Evolve Ventures Limited, began delivering our kerbside collection service and managing our Waste Transfer Stations. As part of these changes, Council rubbish bags changed from yellow to red, some collection days changed in Ōtorohanga, and households received a new blue recycling crate for glass. If you have questions about these changes, please visit our Kerbside Collection Changes – Frequently Asked Questions.

Kerbside Collections

Council provides a weekly kerbside collection service for official Council red rubbish bags and recycling crates in Ōtorohanga, Kāwhia and Aotea.

From 1 July 2026, Council's new waste and recycling contractor, Evolve Ventures Limited, began delivering our kerbside collection service and managing our Waste Transfer Stations. As part of these changes, Council rubbish bags changed from yellow to red, some collection days changed in Ōtorohanga, and households received a new blue recycling crate for glass. If you have questions about these changes, please visit our Kerbside Collection Changes – Frequently Asked Questions.

From 1 July 2026, households receive two recycling crates:

  • Blue crate - Glass bottles and jars only.
  • Green crate - Paper, cardboard, aluminium and steel cans, and plastics numbered 1, 2 and 5.

Please ensure all recyclable items are clean, empty and free from food residue. Remove lids, pumps and triggers where possible before placing items in your recycling crate. For tips on recycling correctly, visit our Recycle Right page.

Collection days

Ōtorohanga

Kāwhia and Aotea

  • Monday.
  • During public holiday weeks, collections move to Wednesday.

Collection information

  • Place your rubbish bags and recycling crates on the kerbside by 7.00am on your collection day.
  • Council's kerbside rubbish collection uses official red Council rubbish bags.
  • Council rubbish bags have a maximum weight of 15kg.
  • If your collection is missed, please contact Council.

Recycling Centres / Waste Transfer Stations

Council operates two Recycling Centres / Waste Transfer Stations where residents can dispose of rubbish and recycling. They are managed by Evolve Ventures on behalf of Council. 

Locations

Ōtorohanga Waste Transfer Station
40 Progress Drive, Ōtorohanga

Phone: 027 236 2933

Kāwhia Waste Transfer Station
Lake Road, Kāwhia

Phone: 027 236 2933

What you can drop off

Free

  • Paper and cardboard
  • Glass bottles and jars
  • Aluminium and steel cans
  • Plastics 1, 2 and 5
  • Rubbish bags:
    • From 1 August 2026: Red Council rubbish bags can be dropped off for free. All other bags (yellow or standard rubbish bags will be charged for.
    • Yellow Enviro NZ rubbish bags: For any enquiries regarding yellow rubbish bags, phone Enviro NZ directly on 0800 240 120.

Charges apply

  • Green waste
  • General refuse
  • Selected other waste streams (see Fees and Charges)
  Ōtorohanga Kāwhia
Monday 10am - 4pm  Closed
Tuesday 10am - 4pm  Closed
Wednesday 10am - 4pm 12pm - 3pm
Thursday Closed Closed
Friday 10am - 4pm Closed
Saturday 10am - 4pm 12pm - 3pm
Sunday 10am - 4pm 12pm - 3pm
Christmas Day, Good Friday, ANZAC Day Closed Closed

Rural Recycling Sites

Council works with local schools to provide free rural recycling facilities for surrounding communities.

Locations

  • Arohena School
  • Korakonui School
  • Maihiihi School
  • Ngutunui School

Accepted materials

  • Glass bottles and jars
  • Paper and cardboard
  • Aluminium and steel cans
  • Plastics 1, 2 and 5

Please note: Household rubbish is not accepted at these sites.

Residents are encouraged to recycle responsibly and help keep these community facilities tidy.

Locations of Recycling Centres & Rural Recycling