The Queenstown Lakes District Council today announced an innovative new recycling competition.

"The search is on to uncover the champion recyclers of our district," QLDC waste manager Dr Linda Wright said.

The competition had three categories: young recycler (7-15 years), business and resident.

Local businesses and the Council had come on board to ensure that the champions were well rewarded.

"I'm thrilled we are able to offer prize money of $500 for each of the three category winners, thanks to Wakatipu Waste Recyclers, CivicCorp and Otago Southland Waste Services," Dr Wright said.

The cash prize came with a proviso.

"To enter the competition you have to prepare a recycling plan that outlines what you do, now, to recycle at home, at school, or in your place of work. We also want to hear about what you hope to do in the future and how you would put the money towards recycling," Dr Wright said.

The young person's prize money would be put towards a school project.

"We're looking for some innovation and some motivation in our community as we gear up to introducing kerbside recycling across the district," Dr Wright said.

Kerbside recycling was scheduled to be introduced in Wanaka in July and Queenstown in August.

Entry forms could be accessed on the Council website or at the Wanaka or Queenstown Council office. The awards would be presented during the July full Council meeting.

ENDS

For more information please contact Dr Wright 03 441 0499.

Attached picture: Dr Linda Wright looking to reward the district's champion recyclers.

By: Tamah