Holiday alert: Please note that kerbside collections between 25-27 December and 1-3 January will be pushed out a day (even recyclers need a holiday). For more on Rubbish & Recycling in our district, see our dedicated webpage.

Council offices will close at midday Wednesday 24 December 2025 and reopen 8.00am Monday 5 January 2026. For urgent issues, call us on 03 441 0499 (Queenstown) or 03 443 0024 (Wānaka). For non-urgent issues, please us the Snap Send Solve App. We hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Onsite Disposal Systems

If your property does not have a connection to the council reticulated stormwater system and/or wastewater system, you will need to dispose of this onsite. This will require a building consent.

Onsite wastewater disposal systems

If you are intending to build in an area without a council reticulated wastewater network, you will need to submit a Building Consent to install a domestic Onsite Wastewater Disposal System.

Why?

If improperly designed or installed, these systems could contaminate waterways and areas outside your property. So care must be taken.

Is there anything else to be aware of?

In certain cases, a Resource Consent may be required from either QLDC or Otago Regional Council (ORC). The application form details the requirements associated with an ORC Resource Consent.

Where to find further information?

The Onsite Wastewater Disposal Guidance information sheet helps understanding options for onsite wastewater disposal, the risks and restrictions involved, and the consenting process required. This is available on the Application forms, checksheets and guidance page.