Invercargill City Council infrastructure group manger Erin Moogan said wet wipes were causing wicked woes for the city.
"The incorrect disposal of wet wipes and the subsequent accumulation of fats is one of the main causes of blockages in our pipes, regardless of the age of the pipes or the suburb.
"Wet wipes should not be flushed down the drain and should always be disposed of in the rubbish bin."
Overflowing sewers not only fouled private property, but caused environmental harm and presented a public health risk.
They caused widespread issues in the city’s main infrastructure, including pipes and pumps, she said.
Residents should only flush the "three Ps — poo, pee and toilet paper", she said.
Once caught in the network wet wipes trapped fat and grease which formed into solid masses known as fatbergs, she said.
The wipes, even the ones labelled "flushable", did not break down well in water and were a major contributor to blockages.
The city’s sewer mains had been blocked by fatbergs 18 times since July 2024.
Each blockage cost ratepayers up to $5000.
