History of Wanaka Wastebusters
Wanaka Wastebusters was opened in September 2000, on the site of the old Wanaka landfill. Legend has it that the mayor of the time, Warren Cooper, bet $100 that it wouldn’t survive. Mind you, Mr Cooper also believed that the ultimate in recycling was drinking your own urine. He still owes us the $100.
The opening of Wastebusters 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 first shed to house the recycling press and the second-hand shop.
When Wanaka Wastebusters opened, it had one employee and an $8,000 debt. A decade later, the community enterprise has 30 employees with a payroll of $1 million,most of which goes straight back into our local town.
As a community enterprise, we’ve kept the same ethics and governance structure. An executive committee meets every month to make sure we’re on the right track. For only one dollar, anyone can join as a member to support our recycling and education activities. If you want to get free updates about our missions and projects, sign up here.
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 nous.
