After 28 years of trailblazing and dedicated service, Chris Wills—affectionately known as Mr Redvale—is retiring from WM New Zealand.
Chris was honoured by friends, whānau, and colleagues at Redvale Landfill & Energy Park last Tuesday, celebrating his remarkable contributions over nearly three decades.
In recognition of his service, iwi Ngāti Rango presented Chris with a beautiful pouwhenua, carved from native New Zealand timber. Pouwhenua are used by Māori to mark territorial boundaries or places of significance, and this special gift acknowledges Chris’ lasting impact on Redvale and its community.
Chris joined WM New Zealand in December 1992 as the Redvale Landfill Manager. At the time, he faced the challenging task of building trust with local residents, many of whom were strongly opposed to the landfill’s development.
General Manager of Operational and Technical Services, Ian Kennedy, recalls that the 1990s marked a shift from traditional “dumps” to modern, engineered landfills. Chris played a key role in ensuring Redvale operated to the highest environmental standards, setting a benchmark followed both in New Zealand and internationally.
His efforts in strengthening relationships within the Redvale community earned him the reputation of being “the nicest man on this earth.”
Chris takes particular pride in his work on landfill gas capture. Today, Redvale Landfill & Energy Park captures and utilises over 95% of landfill gas, making it a global leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Throughout his tenure, Chris has witnessed WM New Zealand undergo three ownership changes and grow tenfold while maintaining its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Kia ora Chris—your friendship, kindness, and passion for sustainability and innovation have left an indelible mark on WM New Zealand. Although you and your wife Pam will continue living next door to Redvale Landfill & Energy Park, we extend our heartfelt best wishes as you embark on this next chapter.
