Queenstown Lakes District Council has introduced an instant $100 fine for littering, and even dropping a cigarette butt, apple core or lolly paper qualifies.
Mayor Clive Geddes says sadly tourists are a big part of the litter problem. Mr Geddes says people visit the district to enjoy its beauty, so it is disappointing they do not recognise or respect that it is also home to many people.
Mr. Geddes said, "Despite all attempts to provide bins, we have been besieged by litter to the stage that in the last two months in Queenstown and Wanaka it has been the source of most complaints to the council."
