News

Flush only pee, poo and toilet paper

Local News Our Work
PUBLISHED: 1 APR 2020
Share this article

Staying clean and healthy has taken on extra importance during the Covid-19 lockdown, but we still have to look after our sewage system.

Wet wipes are becoming a problem in wastewater systems around the country and we’re seeing them gum up the works in New Plymouth District too, with four recent blockages at pump stations.

“Wet wipes belong in the landfill bin – as do rags, paper towels, sanitary pads and tampons,” says NPDC Manager Three Waters Mark Hall.

“These items don’t break down in water like toilet paper does so please don’t flush them. Only flush pee, poo and toilet paper.”

NPDC’s wastewater crew are essential workers during the lockdown and while they are still working, NPDC wants to cut down how many callouts they have to attend. Cleaning the screen of rags and wet wipes at Te Henui pump station, requires three staff members to be on-site.

“The fewer blockages we have to clear the better, as it means our emergency staff can avoid meeting in person at a time when we’re meant to be keeping our distance,” says Mr Hall.

“We need our residents to do their bit by not flushing wet wipes and rags. We’d really appreciate your help with this by putting them straight in the landfill bin.”

Related news

A life saver for tradies: new million dollar waste sorting facility to open for region's businesses
NPDC to discuss Central Government’s Three Waters Reforms at Public Meeting
Historic touches in place as Pukekura Park transformed for footy

Page last updated: 09:17pm Tue 26 October 2021

Contact us
06 759 6060 enquiries@npdc.govt.nz
Visit us

84 Liardet Street
New Plymouth

Search
Find by A–Z
Navigate
Useful links
Our NPDC family
New Zealand Government logo