A yellow gear delivery to WM New Zealand’s Redvale Landfill and Energy Park has marked a milestone – not just for WM New Zealand, but also for leading German manufacturer BOMAG.
The new arrival, a massive BOMAG BC1173 refuse compactor, is the fourth of its kind now operating at Redvale. What makes this one particularly special is its global significance: it’s the 100th BC1173 ever produced.
To celebrate, BOMAG equipped the machine with subtle commemorative touches, including special decals, a chromed exhaust, and upgraded cab features. While it looks sharp, the real benefit is in its performance – making it an ideal fit for Redvale’s challenging terrain.
Unlike other machines adapted from wheel loaders, BOMAG’s BC1173 compactors are designed specifically for landfill operations.
Weighing in at 56 tonnes, the compactor is powered by a 430kW (approx. 570hp) engine. Despite its size and power, it operates more quietly and more fuel efficiently than previous models, meeting the strictest European emission standards for non-road machinery. Various eco-modes help reduce fuel use, noise, and emissions – a benefit for both nearby communities and the surrounding ecological areas that support native birdlife.
The machine is also highly manoeuvrable. Its large oscillating joint allows steering at angles of up to 40°, with an additional 15° of oscillation to handle uneven ground. With nearly 270° visibility from the cab, purpose-built ergonomics, and self-cleaning wheels with integrated wire cutters, the BC1173 is designed to keep drivers safe, comfortable, and productive.
Regional Manager Glen Jujnovich says the new compactor makes a big impact on operations:
“It helps us achieve the right level of compaction in fewer passes, meaning greater efficiency. It’s also highly effective at moving cover soil at the end of each day, which is essential for minimising odour. It’s exactly what we need to keep pushing performance.”
The milestone compactor was supplied through Porter’s Group, WM New Zealand’s trusted local dealer. WM New Zealand first worked with Porter’s in early 2024 when Silverstream Landfill became home to the first BC1173 in Australasia.
Thinesh Tharan, WM New Zealand’s Head of Engineering, says the partnership continues to play a crucial role in operational success:
“Their responsiveness, technical expertise, and willingness to step in when needed have been a huge help in keeping our operations running smoothly. It’s a shared commitment to getting the job done right.”
For WM New Zealand, the addition of the 100th BOMAG compactor underscores the organisation’s commitment to innovation in waste management.
With over 2,000 team members across 90 locations, WM New Zealand collects more than 2 million tonnes of waste each year and recycles well over 200,000 tonnes. As Aotearoa’s largest composter, largest waste-to-energy provider, and operator of the largest commercial electric fleet in the country – powered by electricity from waste – WM New Zealand is constantly looking for new ways to redirect, neutralise, and use waste.
The latest addition at Redvale highlights this ongoing drive for smarter, more sustainable operations.
