The inaugural Queenstown Lakes District Council Recycling Competition response had exceeded the Council's expectations, QLDC waste manager Dr Linda Wright said.

Dr Wright launched the competition in May to uncover the champion recyclers of our district.

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

Each category is set to win prize money of $500 thanks to Wakatipu Waste Recyclers, CivicCorp and Otago Southland Waste Services, with the proviso that the money be spent on recycling. In the case of the young recycler the money would go towards the schools recycling practices.

"We received in excess of 70 entries, many of which were extremely well prepared and presented," Dr Wright said.

The judges had been impressed by the high standard, to the extent that they opted to issue commendations in addition to the three category winners.

"Some of the entries, particularly from the younger members of the community, were just amazing," Dr Wright said.

The three winners would be announced at the full Council meeting next week (Friday) when the Mayor would make a special presentation to the winners.

With kerbside recycling set to get underway at Wanaka from September, Dr Wright said she was heartened by the level of awareness demonstrated in the community.

"This competition tells me that recycling is alive and well in our district," she said.

The Council hopes to make the competition and annual event.

After the presentation the winning entries will be on display in the Queenstown Council foyer.

ENDS

For further information please contact Dr Linda Wright 03 441 0499.

By: Tamah