Bin removals spark increase in Auckland litter complaints

Residents across Auckland say littering and illegal dumping have increased following the removal of around 2000 public bins two years ago.

Auckland Council took away the bins in 2024 to reduce maintenance costs, carbon emissions, and save ratepayer money.

However, the move is now facing growing opposition.

Council figures show that litter and illegal dumping cost ratepayers more than $1 million to remove alone last year, with the council receiving more than 17,000 reports of dumped rubbish.

Illegal dumping has become a major issue in rural areas and poses a threat to the natural environment, including beaches and waterways.

Auckland Council’s acting general manager of waste solutions, Anthony Chaney, says illegal dumping has been "a persistent challenge, which is why it’s a clear priority in Auckland’s Waste Minimisation and Management Plan 2024".

“We know littering and illegal dumping are hugely upsetting to communities and to mana whenua, and we share those concerns.”

According to a Facebook poll, 46 per cent of people feel that rubbish and pollution have become significantly worse.

“The removal has led to increased littering and public hygiene concerns,” says Auckland resident Ian Twist.

Twist is not the only one. A survey of Auckland's residents suggested solutions ranging from more community clean-ups to better rubbish bins, improved public education campaigns, and reduced single-use plastics.

“I propose that strict waste laws and fines on littering is the most effective way to reduce the problem of waste in the community," says  Twist.

Howick resident Leah Dawson says her suburb needs more rubbish bins and better street cleaning systems.

“We are fed up with public spaces being turned into a dump.”

She says it is disappointing when improvements have been made in developing areas regarding waste.

Environmental experts say tackling litter upstream, in streets and parks, is key to keeping waterways and beaches clean.

The council is now reviewing its waste bylaw, with decisions expected by mid-year after public consultation. Read more here: Waste bylaw and controls.

The council says it aims to improve waste rules, including general rubbish from households and businesses, recyclable items, and food scraps.

Current penalties are set under national legislation through the Litter Act 1979, which allows councils to issue infringement fines of up to $400, with higher penalties available through the courts in serious cases.

The council has introduced alternatives, such as increased cleaning patrols and signage encouraging people to take rubbish home.

Auckland Council general manager for parks and facilities Taryn Crewe says the council monitors customer complaints relating to litter, and if installing a bin is the appropriate action, then this is carried out.

Auckland's local boards can decide if bins are removed or reinstated, and if a local board approves reinstatement and funding then bins are put into areas where this is required, Crewe says.

Though multiple local boards have called for the reinstatement of bins, none have been placed yet.

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AI was not used in this story.