Off-Grid Toilet Solutions in New Zealand: a Summary of current options
Off-grid toilet solutions are an essential component of sustainable living, providing an alternative to traditional sewage systems. They are particularly important in New Zealand, where many people live in remote locations or are seeking eco-friendly options for their homes and lifestyles. In this summary, we will explore the various off-grid toilet solutions available in New Zealand, discussing their features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Categories of Off-Grid Toilet Solutions
There are several categories of off-grid toilet solutions available in the New Zealand market, including:
Composting toilets
Incinerating toilets
Portable camping toilets
Dry toilets
Other new innovations (for example Biogas)
Composting Toilets
Features: Composting toilets use natural processes to break down human waste into nutrient-rich compost. They typically have a larger capacity than other off-grid toilets and are designed for long-term use. Some models include separate compartments for solid and liquid waste.
Benefits: Composting toilets are eco-friendly, as they recycle waste into valuable compost. They also require little water and have no need for a sewage connection, making them ideal for remote locations.
Drawbacks: Composting toilets require regular maintenance, including turning the compost and emptying the containers. They can also be more expensive than other off-grid toilet options.
Suppliers of Composting Toilets (Google reviews)
Toilets NZ
https://toiletsnz.co.nz/
Google Rating (5/5)
They offer a couple of solutions both over $NZ2000+ price range (Natures Head & Ogo brands)
NZ Enviro Composting Toilet Systems
https://www.envirocompostingtoilets.co.nz/
Google Rating (4.5/5)
This company offers a couple of seriuos solutions including a flushing composting toilet with pricing starting over $NZ4000+ (Aquatron & Farmstyle / Back Country Enviro Composting Toilet)
Waterless Composting Toilets
https://www.wctnz.co.nz/
Google Rating (4.2/5)
Waterless offers a range of solutions including the (Sun-Mar & Bambooloo brands) pricing starts at just over $NZ1100.00+
Incinerating Toilets
Features: Incinerating toilets use high temperatures to burn waste, reducing it to ash. They are compact and require no water or sewage connection.
Benefits: Incinerating toilets are low-maintenance, as the ash produced is minimal and easy to dispose of. They are also suitable for remote locations and can be used in colder climates.
Drawbacks: Incinerating toilets require a power source, such as electricity or propane, which can be a limitation in some off-grid situations. They can also be more expensive than other options and may produce odours during the incineration process.
Suppliers of Incinerator Toilets (Google reviews where found)
Ecoash
https://www.ecoash.co.nz/
Google Rating (No Reviews)
They offer the Cinderella Incinerator toilet solution starting price $NZ8500+.
Hitech Pacific (Australian based) but supply to New Zealand customers
https://nicholas-green-8rp3.squarespace.com/incinolet
Google Rating (No Reviews)
Offering the Incinolet Incinerating Toilets solutions. Circa $NZ10,000+GST (Dependent on exchange rate)
Portable Camping Toilets
Features: Portable camping toilets are lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. They typically consist of a waste container with a seat and lid and may use chemicals or bags to contain waste.
Benefits: Portable camping toilets are an affordable and convenient option for short-term use, such as camping trips or outdoor events. They can be easily stored and transported, making them a popular choice for travellers.
Drawbacks: Portable camping toilets have a limited capacity and require regular emptying. They may also produce odours and are less eco-friendly than composting or incinerating toilets.
Suppliers of Portable Camping Toilets (Google reviews where found)
Mitre10
Kiwi Camping toilet - Mitre10
Google Rating (4.5/5)
They offer the Kiwi Camping portable toilet 20-litre wastewater holding tank and 12-litre freshwater tank - $NZ149.00
Bunnings Warehouse
Bunning Warehouse Portable Loo
Google Rating (4.5/5)
They offer the Campmaster portable toilet 20-litre bottom (holding) tank and 10-litre (50 flushes) top tank (freshwater) - $NZ148.87
RV Super Centre (Palmerston North for this example)
RV Super Centre Portable toilet link
Offering a number of solutions here is one we liked the look of - Thetford Porta Potti 565P with Piston Flush 21L with a holding Tank Capacity of21L, and Flush Tank Capacity of 15L - $NZ300.00
Dry Toilets
Features: Dry toilets, also known as pit latrines, are a simple off-grid toilet solution that involves digging a hole in the ground and covering it with a toilet seat or platform. Waste is collected in the pit and left to decompose naturally.
Benefits: Dry toilets are a low-cost and low-maintenance option, as they require no water or sewage connection. They are suitable for remote locations and can be easily constructed with minimal materials.
Drawbacks: Dry toilets can produce odours and may attract insects or rodents. They also require sufficient space for digging a pit and may not be suitable for all soil types or locations.
NB: You need to do your research before considering building your own Dry Toilet. We struggled to find local businesses who could help, but you will need to contact your local council to go over their requirements if considering this as an option.
Other Solutions
Other solutions: The popularity of both Tiny Homes and Off-Grid living has created many more solutions so search on a regular basis before making your final decision.
In conclusion, the best off-grid toilet solution for your needs will depend on your specific situation and priorities, such as eco-friendliness, cost, and ease of use. By considering the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each option, you can make an informed decision that meets your requirements.
Are you living off-grid?
Let us know what you use. Please provide your insights into your experience.
I hope you found this article helpful.
nāku noa - Yours sincerely
Tony Cutting
for Kiwi Tiny Home - Lifestyle Magazine
