Fair Deals for Local Wheels
Plating up savings at HDC Refuse Transfer Stations
From 1 December 2025, our upgraded automatic number plate recognition system at our Waihī and Paeroa Refuse Transfer Stations (RTS) will make waste disposal fairer, more efficient and more sustainable for Hauraki District residents and ratepayers.
Why We’re Making This Change
A 12-month investigation into the origin of waste received at our Waihī RTS found that around 55% of users live outside the Hauraki District, largely due to limited waste disposal options nearby and the convenience of our facility.
As a result, many out-of-district users have been using our RTS without contributing to the operational costs that Hauraki District residents and ratepayers already support through Gate Fees and Charges.
In September 2025, Council approved a fairer system that introduces a standard Gate Fee and Charge for all users and a discounted Gate Fee and Charge for registered Hauraki District residents and ratepayers.
“Signing up is easy as – if you want the discounted Gate Fees and Charges, register your vehicle’s number plate with HDC online and from 1 December 2025, you’ll benefit from the discounted charges”, said Mayor Toby.
This ensures Hauraki ratepayers are recognised for the contribution they already make to operating these facilities.
How It Works
Once registered, your vehicle’s number plate will automatically be recognised at the weighbridge, applying the correct fee:
- Registered Hauraki District vehicle number plates will receive the discounted Gate Fees and Charges.
- Out-of-district vehicles pay the standard Gate Fees and Charges.
Data is collected only for waste management purposes, in line with the Privacy Act 2020.
Keeping Things Fair
Standard Gate Fees and Charges for rubbish disposal will increase slightly from 1 December 2025 due to rising operational costs and government-imposed Waste Levy and ETS charges.
Despite this, registered Hauraki District residents and ratepayers will continue to benefit from discounted charges, while recycling remains free when items are clean and sorted.
How to Register
Registration is free, quick, and easy:
Online: From 22 October onwards, visit our page Vehicle Registration for Our Refuse Transfer Stations
22 October – 1 December 2025: Contact our friendly Waste Management Team on 07 862 5030 or visit our pop-up sessions at our Paeroa and Waihī RTS, and Ngātea collection centre (dates to be advertised in advance).
From 1 December: Register in person at any Hauraki District Council Service Centre, or call 07 862 8609 or 0800 734 834
Residents and ratepayers are encouraged to register online from 22 October, or, if after 1 December, at least three working days before visiting your local RTS, as digital records take 48 hours to update.
Register once, manage anytime
It’s a one-time registration. You can register all vehicles linked to your Hauraki District address. Buying a new car or selling one? Simply update your registration — adding or removing vehicles is quick and hassle-free.
Building on Improvements
This technology builds on upgrades already made at our Paeroa and Waihī RTS, where weighbridges ensure customers are charged accurately based on the actual weight of their waste.
Number plate recognition will further improve accuracy, efficiency, and safety, reduce manual handling and creating a smoother experience for all users.
