Wanaka Wastebusters is a community owned enterprise, which was set up by volunteers in 2000 to start recycling in Wanaka and reduce waste going to landfill. We are an incorporated society with charitable status. We operate as a business , but any profits we make are used to provide extra services for our community and to further our mission and vision.
Governance
General manager Sue Coutts paints the big picture for the future of Wastebusters. She reports to an executive committee, representing the community, who oversee the direction and the financial health of Wanaka Wastebusters. The committee is elected annually by members at the AGM.
The Executive Committee members for the year ending October 2012 are:
- Russell McGeorge, Chair
- Devon Hotop
- Sally Battson
- Sharon Beattie
- Dominic Stayne
- Caroline Harker
- Barbara Chinn
History
The opening of Wastebusters in 2000 was the fruition of many months working, planning and fund-raising by a dedicated committee. The committee had links through the whole Wanaka community, and was chaired by respected GP Dr Dennis Pezarro. Numerous volunteers turned up at working bees to build the recycling centre.
When Wanaka Wastebusters opened, one person was employed. A decade later, the community enterprise is one of the largest employers in town, with 25 staff, well-developed buildings and grounds, substantial machinery and a small fleet of vehicles.
In November 2010, Wanaka Wastebusters celebrated its 10th birthday with a giant gala, followed by a massive after-party. We were pleased to have the Minister for the Environment Nick Smith, and the current mayor Vanessa van Uden, as honoured guests. Opening the gala, Dr Smith commended Wastebusters for its tenacity, foresight and commercial sense.
Services
Wanaka Wastebusters collects the recycling from over 200 businesses in Wanaka. We have extensive experience in events recycling and waste management, including for Rippon and Warbirds Over Wanaka. We offer drop-off recycling for households and businesses at our recycling centre, corner of Ballantyne Rd and Riverbank Rd. Our second-hand store is the largest in Wanaka, and we run environmental education for schools and the wider community.
Staff
Wanaka Wastebusters employs 25 people, including some with special needs. We love that most of the wages we pay are spent in town which helps other local businesses. We also make an effort to buy products and services from local businesses to strengthen our local economy.
Join Us
If you want to support the work of Wanaka Wastebusters, then become a member. You can pay your $1 sub and sign up Wastebusters shop. Members can vote and/or be nominated for the Executive Committee at the AGM.
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