The Queenstown Lakes District Council's inaugural online survey of 183 respondents on the issue of solid waste is "a tool for feedback", Mayor Vanessa van Uden says.
"The purpose of the survey was to seek feedback from the public about the current and future waste services provided in the district and to think particularly about affordability, sustainability, value for money and changing markets," Ms van Uden said.
The council conducted the survey - entitled "Waste 2010" - during November and December.
"Moving to a survey online had proved a popular medium for what is traditionally a subject poorly subscribed to," solid waste manager Stefan Borowy said.
The survey received 191 responses in total - 183 people filled in the survey and comment form while eight people chose to submit comments only.
"This is an extremely pleasing response on the issues and more importantly it has given us some essential feedback. We are very grateful to all those members of our community who took part," Mr Borowy said.
While the council would have liked greater participation, the survey had been widely promoted.
"With the amount of website traffic the council receives and the prominence and publicity given the survey, we are comfortable that we heard from those that wanted to have a say on the subject," he said.
The results of the waste survey would be incorporated into the review of the waste management strategy and development of the new solid waste bylaw being carried out with the help of the solid waste working party, Mr Borowy said.
SURVEY RESULTS
• 174 out of 183, or 95%, want kerbside recycling services to continue.
• 153 out of 183, or 84%, want current rubbish service options to continue.
• 80 out of 183, or 44%, believe there are other options the council could consider.
• 83 out of 183, or 45%, believe the council should introduce a kerbside organic collection service.
• 74 out of 183, or 40%, believe the council should not introduce a kerbside organic collection service.
• 124 out of 183, or 68%, believe the services offered to rural communities should stay the same.
• 160 out of 183, or 87%, believe the council should try to extend the life of the landfill through diversion targets.
• 135 out of 183, or 74%, support the services offered to downtown retailers to keep the streets looking good.
• 69 out of 183, or 38%, believe Queenstown streets are looking better.
