Food scraps
Waipā District Council does not provide a kerbside collection service for food scraps for residents. This is no longer mandated by the Government. Find out more about our plans to reduce food waste across the district.
In November 2022, the previous Government agreed to five policies to improve household recycling. One of these policies was for Councils to introduce a household food scraps service to all urban areas.
In late December 2024, the current Government decided this would no longer go ahead. That meant local Councils were now under no obligation to provide this service to their residents.
Waipā elected members voted against introducing a new kerbside food scraps service in early 2025. They were concerned about adding extra costs to ratepayers.
Diverting food waste from landfills continues to be a priority for Council. It is a key activity in our Waste Minimisation and Management Plan (WMMP). The Waste Minimisation Team is working hard on several initiatives that support at-home composting and establishing community compost hubs across the district.
To stay updated on these projects and learn when they will launch in 2025, sign up for our Waste Minimisation e-newsletter!
A few more options for food lovers
We support the Food Lovers Masterclasses with Kate Meads.
At Kate's masterclass, you’ll learn the ‘what, why, and how’ we waste our valuable food, and leave with the knowledge and strategies to make a real difference and save money!
The Easy Choice Healthy Kai cookbooks are free.
A Love Food Hate Waste initiative, the Easy Choice Family Kai Cookbook and menu planner helps families shop for and eat nourishing affordable food.
And all the food bought for the week is used up, none ends up in the bin!
Love Food, Hate Waste
The Love Food, Hate Waste Programme has a goal to reduce food waste in Aotearoa by 10 percent by 2030.
They’ve got a range of great resources and tips to help you make the most of food and reduce the amount of good food going in the bin.
I don't want to put food scraps in my rubbish bin, what can I do with them?
If you’re keen to reduce your food waste at home, check out our ideas and tips in the Waste Less Living section.