Pre-paid stickers and tags increasing
From 1 July, rubbish bag stickers will increase from $1.50 to $3, and wheelie bin tags from $3 to $6. You'll need to use two blue stickers for each rubbish bag or two yellow tags for a wheelie bin to accommodate for this price increase. This excludes Raglan that has separate waste services to the rest of the district.
From mid-August, new stickers and tags will be available from retailers. The new stickers will be in different colours to differentiate them from the old stock.
Residents are welcome to use their old stock up by doubling stickers and tags to meet the price increase. Alternatively, you can swap your old stock out at Waikato District Council offices and libraries. You can also purchase the new stickers and tags here.
Read more on the price increase, including FAQs
Need a recycling crate?
Each household receives two crates free when they complete a new build, after that, replacement crates are $23 each.
Recycling must be placed in the crate, unless it is cardboard/paper which can be placed between or under a crate or in a cardboard box not in the crate.
You can replace lost, stolen and damaged crates or get two free crates for a newly built dwelling from any one of our council offices, for locations see our contact us page.
Tuakau wheelie bins
Only certain areas of Tuakau use wheelie bins, each household is rated for one wheelie bin.
If you should have a wheelie bin and don't, or if it has been stolen, you can order a new one by calling us 0800 492 452 or visiting the Tuakau office.
Wheelie bins are only offered in one size, 120L and cost $58 + $16.20 delivery fee. Each wheelie bin must weigh no more than 40kg on collection day.
Where can I buy rubbish bag stickers and wheelie bin tags?
You can buy stickers and tags in the local convenience stores, service stations and selected Waikato District Council offices and libraries listed below.
The following retailers have confirmed they will stock the pre-paid stickers. Please check they are in stock prior to visiting the store.
PLEASE NOTE: This list is based on information provided to us by those retailers. It does not necessarily include all retailers who currently sell the stickers/tags, and some of the information may be outdated. If a retailer appearing on this list has advised they no longer sell rubbish stickers or tags, please let us know.
Our recommended retail price (RRP) to all retailers from 1 July 2025 is $3 for stickers and $6.00 for tags.