Misuse means Bay of Islands' barge manned

A rubbish barge has been put into action in the Bay of Islands to keep the water clean.

A rubbish barge will once again be helping keep the Bay of Islands clean this summer.

In years gone by, the barge (pictured) was moored at a fixed location and boaties could drop off rubbish in pre-paid bags, but past misuse means it is now manned and makes a series of stops at popular locations three days a week.

The barge is a joint venture between the Northland Regional and Far North District councils, the Department of Conservation and contractor Waste Management.

From December 28 the barge will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, weather permitting. It will first visit campsites on Urupukapuka Island from 9.30-11am before mooring close to the south-eastern end of Moturua Island from about 11.30am-2.30pm.

Russell Radio (VHF Channel 63) or the website www.nrc.govt.nz/rubbishbarge will provide up-to-date information.

A flat $5 fee per rubbish bag will apply, regardless of whether pre-paid or plain bags are used. A fee will also apply to recyclables.

Meanwhile, the Far North District Council and Waste Management will provide a separate, shore-based refuse/recycling service in the Bay of Islands from December 26. The service will be available next to the Port Opua fuel jetty (7am-6pm until January 24) and at Rawhiti's Te Tawa Hill at the north end of Kaingahoa Bay (1-5pm until January 30).