Disasters can generate large volumes of debris. Disaster debris can severely impact emergency response and recovery efforts; overwhelm local solid waste management facilities and personnel; and can be potentially harmful to public and environmental health. Framed around a case study of the debris management following Hurricane Katrina, US, 2005, this paper provides an overview of eight key issues involved in disaster debris management: debris management goals, prioritization and timing, environmental impact, economics, social factors, organisational and coordination structures, legislative issues, and financial aspects / funding mechanisms. The key components of a typical debris management plan are presented and the paper concludes with a brief look at the way forward for disaster debris management in New Zealand.