Waitomo District Council has awarded its new Solid Waste Management Contract to Evolve Ventures Limited, a 100% New Zealand owned and operated company.

The seven-year, $10 million contract covers kerbside refuse and recycling collections, the servicing of street litter and recycling bins, rural transfer station collections, refuse haulage and disposal, and the transport and processing of recyclable materials.

The contract runs until 30 June 2033, with an option for a further two-year extension based on performance.

General Manager – Infrastructure Services, Shyamal Ram, says three tenders were carefully evaluated before the contract was awarded.

“This is one of Council’s most significant service contracts, and we undertook a comprehensive assessment to ensure the best outcome for our community,” he says.

“This procurement was undertaken jointly with Ōtorohanga District Council. By aligning both councils’ waste service requirements into a single tender process, we were able to achieve better savings through operational efficiencies and attract a wider range of high-quality tenderers—ultimately securing stronger pricing and better outcomes for both districts.”

The contract begins on 30 June 2026.

“A long lead-in period is essential to support a smooth transition and to introduce a separate crate for glass bottle collections,” says Shyamal.

He also noted the importance of these services to the community.

“Solid waste services affect nearly every household, whether through kerbside collection or use of our transfer stations. Reliable delivery and value for ratepayers are critical.”

As part of the contract, Evolve Ventures will introduce compactor bins at the Piopio and Mōkau recycling stations. This will increase onsite capacity and reduce the frequency of pickups, helping to reduce operational costs.

Further information will be shared with the community as Council progresses toward the contract start date.