Illegal rubbish dumping plagues Lake Dunstan

Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) is asking for Lake Dunstan to be treated with care, not contempt, after repeated instances of illegal rubbish dumping.

LINZ Leader Land and Waterways Lee Farnhill says household waste is regularly being abandoned near the shoreline, creating potential environmental risks and spoiling a place enjoyed by locals and visitors.

“It is incredibly disappointing that someone thinks this beautiful area is their own personal dumping ground.

“Dumping rubbish not only harms the environment, it also takes away from the incredible effort that goes into keeping these spaces clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.”

LINZ is responsible for managing several sites around Lake Dunstan. As part of this, it services rubbish bins, provides public toilets, mows sites and undertakes pest control.

“Every time someone dumps rubbish illegally, it’s the taxpayer who ends up footing the bill for the clean-up.

“The money we spend to dispose of this household waste would be better spent on our regular site maintenance,” says Farnhill.

LINZ asks all lake users to take responsibility for their rubbish and to use the waste management services provided by council.

Anyone who sees illegal dumping at the lake is encouraged to take a photo and report it by emailing [email protected]. People can be fined up to $5000 under the Litter Act 1979 for illegal dumping.