Hutt City Council has extended the waiver of green waste fees at Silverstream Landfill until 5pm, Sunday 1 March, recognising the tremendous community response to storm clean-up efforts across Lower Hutt.

In the first three days of the fee waiver, Silverstream Landfill received 18, 38 and 49 tonnes of green waste respectively - significantly above normal levels and reflecting the scale of the community clean-up effort.

Mayor Ken Laban says the community's response has been outstanding since severe weather hit the city earlier this month.

"The response from our community has been absolutely incredible. We've seen neighbours helping each other, neighbourhoods working together, and people getting stuck in to get the city back on its feet," says Mayor Ken.

"By extending this fee waiver, we're backing our community as they work through what is a significant recovery effort. The enthusiasm and community spirit has been fantastic to see."

The fee waiver applies to clean green waste only, including branches, leaves and vegetation, delivered by non-commercial vehicles such as cars, vans and utes with trailers. Normal charges remain in place for mixed loads containing non-green materials, and commercial vehicles are not eligible.

Managing High Demand

Due to high demand following the community's clean-up efforts, residents should expect delays. The green waste drop-off area can accommodate around four vehicles at a time, and volumes are significantly above normal levels.

Visitors are advised to:

• Allow extra time
• Avoid peak periods like late afternoon where possible
• Arrive by 5pm to ensure entry and safe unloading (the landfill closes at 6pm during summer hours)

Residents are encouraged to consider cutting larger branches into firewood and donating usable wood to neighbours or others in need.

Silverstream Landfill operating hours:

• Monday to Friday: 7:30am - 5:00pm
• Saturday and Sunday: 8:00am - 6:00pm

Council contractors will continue clearing priority areas and significant debris across the city.

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