End of an era – Wastebusters to withdraw from Alexandra

The Central Otago District Council is saddened to learn that Wastebusters will be closing its Alexandra reuse shop and recycling service for commercial businesses at the end of June.

Wastebusters General Manager Tony Pfeiffer announced this evening (Wednesday 26 April) that it would no longer be operating from its Boundary Road site after June and would be focussing its business on its Wanaka base.

The Alexandra reuse shop had been an important part of the community for over two decades, providing employment, and a place for people to donate and purchase used items, Central Otago District Council Infrastructure Manager CODC Quinton Penniall said.

"It's always sad to see a valued community service like Wastebusters' Alexandra reuse shop close down. We know how much the shop and Wastebusters have meant to Central Otago over the years, and we understand the difficult decision that the team has had to make."

Council is looking at opportunities to continue Wastebusters’ involvement in the community providing education and waste minimisation initiatives.

Council is also interested in talking to community groups who might want to re-establish a reuse shop at the Boundary Road site.

“There may be potential for a community-led initiative to take over this service and continue the important work of diverting items from landfill.”

In addition to the closure of the Alexandra reuse shop, Wastebusters would also be discontinuing its recycling service for commercial businesses. This service has been a valuable resource for local businesses to reduce waste and improve sustainability practices. Other providers in the district offer similar services, so local businesses have options to continue their commercial recycling.

“Despite the closure of the reuse shop and Wastebusters commercial recycling service, the council is committed to continuing the spirit of sustainability that Wastebusters has fostered in the community,” Mr Penniall said.

“We are grateful for the dedication and hard work of the Wastebusters team over the years, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours."

The Wastebusters announcement can be viewed on Facebook: Wastebusters Alexandra | Facebook

It’s important to note that mixed recycling drop-off in Alexandra will continue to be available to the community.