A Taranaki local authority has revealed “fatbergs” caused around 70% of blockages across its wastewater network last year, prompting a plea to locals.
Fatbergs are large solid masses that form in pipes — made up of fats, oils, and grease washed down kitchen sinks.
As the material passed through wastewater systems, fatbergs collected other flushed items, including wet wipes and sanitary products, causing larger and messier clogs.
The New Plymouth District Council said its team dealt with 124 blockages in 2024, “most of which could have been avoided”.
Since the start of 2025, the council had already cleared seven fatbergs, three waters networks manager Jaco Beeslaar said
Beeslaar said blockages could cause sewage to overflow, which could “contaminate the soil and streams”.
“People might not be able to swim or collect kai for a while in the affected area. It also costs money to remove the blockage and clean up the site.”
Earlier this month, food fat from a privately owned sewer pipe caused two wastewater overflows at The Valley shopping centre in teh suburb of Waiwhakaiho.
Beeslaar called on locals to do better and help the council avoid further blockages in 2025.
“It’d be great if we could end 2025 with a lot fewer blockages than last year — which is something the public can help us with,” he said.
To avoid fatbergs forming, the council recommended scraping food fats off pots and pans into bins before washing them; place strainers in the sink to collect any food scraps and other debris from going down the drain; and flush only urine, faeces, and tissue down toilets.
Things such as wet wipes, sanitary products, nappies, and rags should go in red-top landfill bins.
