The council said, in a release, its wastewater pump stations could get blocked by all manner of things — wipes, sanitary products and nappies.
But over the past month the council’s water team in Alexandra discovered the system blocked by a pair of size six underpants — not once but twice.
"Although we can all have a laugh, it’s no joke," Central Otago District Council’s water services operations leader Duncan McInnes said.
"Blockages cost time and ratepayer money — and they’re a hassle for everyone."
The council’s wastewater operators said 90% of the blockages at the Eureka pump station were caused by clothing of some description, and more often than not, it was underwear.
The underpants incidents are a good reminder to make sure people are following the rule of the three Ps: pee, poo, and paper — toilet paper that is — are the only things that should be flushed down the toilet.
"It’s also a reminder to keep fats and oils out of your kitchen drain.
"They can also wreak havoc with the wastewater system. Help us maintain a reliable wastewater system and protect the environment from potential wastewater overflows."
