Eight people who thought they could pollute Northland bush and scarper have had a $200 wake-up call as the costs of removing a huge illegal dumpsite soar.
Far North District Council issued the eight fines over the last month in relation to a massive illegal dump in native bush, about 20 kilometres from Russell, the largest of a number of fly-tipping sites in the Ngaiotonga Scenic Reserve.
The dumping issue in the area featured in the Advocate in February and March after a tourist and several local farmers spoke out.
One of the farmers, Sean Walker, was pleased FNDC was finally taking action about the dumping, which had been happening for decades but had intensified over the past few years. He said he would like to see the offenders held publicly to account.
"I asked [the council] if there was any chance of making them public so we can name and shame. The guy at council seemed reluctant," Mr Walker said.