We're turning up the heat on fly tippers

We're launching a campaign against the illegal dumping of rubbish (fly tipping or fly dumping) at remote areas on the Coromandel Peninsula.

"Due to the significance of the Coromandel Peninsula's environment," says Chief Executive David Hammond, "we must be good stewards of this national treasure."

Offenders are intentionally dumping rubbish in remote areas of the Coromandel, expecting to get away with it, but local sentiment recently brought to the fore in social media shows our communities are in support of more direct action.

Specific sites are now being monitored and our Compliance Officers have identified several individuals associated with the rubbish dumping through evidence located within the rubbish and inquiries are continuing.

Our recent use of Facebook and help from local media has also resulted in several names of possible offenders being provided to Council.

A new Rubbish Fly Dumping Enforcement strategy is being planned and we intend to take the following actions to act as a deterrent to intentional rubbish dumping in our district:

1. Implementation of an infringement regime for offences under the Litter Act 1979 that will range from $100 -$400

2. Significant rubbish dumpings will be investigated with a view of a prosecution under the Litter Act 1979 or Councils Bylaws with fines available up to $20,000

3. Name and shame in the media anyone convicted through the courts.

4. Instigate a "Dob in a Dumper" hotline either through our 24-hour call centre or online.

5. Lift our "Clean and Green" profile and send a clear message that anyone identified littering, dumping rubbish in our district will face legal action.

6. Provide additional monitoring of dumping sites by Compliance Officers.

7. Work with our contractors and NZTA to ensure investigations are undertaken and sites cleaned.

ENDS

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