Aucklanders Await Decision on Controversial Rubbish Collection Trial

A significant decision regarding Auckland’s waste management will be made next week, as the city’s Policy, Planning and Development Committee prepares to vote on a contentious six-month trial for changing weekly kerbside rubbish collection to a fortnightly schedule. The trial, which impacts approximately 10,000 households, is set for discussion during a meeting on December 16, 2023.

The proposed trial aims to assess the feasibility of implementing a fortnightly rubbish collection in select areas, including parts of Clendon Park and Weymouth in the south, Te Atatū Peninsula in West Auckland, and Panmure/Tāmaki. If approved, the initiative would run from February to August 2026 and is projected to cost between $1.4 million and $1.7 million. The goal is to evaluate the potential for a broader rollout across the region, possibly by 2028.

Public consultation has revealed strong opposition to the trial. A survey conducted in October 2024 indicated that 78% of the 5,086 respondents were against the proposal, with only 18% in support. Concerns primarily revolved around managing fuller bins, potential odours, hygiene issues, and whether households would have adequate bin space, particularly larger families.

Councillor Daniel Newman, who represents the Manurewa-Papakura ward, has been vocal in urging the council to abandon the fortnightly collection trial. He emphasized the need to heed the clear opposition expressed by Auckland residents. “The feedback from Clendon, Weymouth, Panmure, and Te Atatū Peninsula was categoric—fortnightly is a dead duck,” Newman stated. He advocates for a permanent weekly rubbish collection service, reflecting the sentiments of his constituents.

Another council member, Josephine Bartley of Maungakiekie-Tāmaki, expressed hope that the voices of the community would shape the committee’s decision next week. Bartley also highlighted the necessity of exploring solutions that engage the community in areas such as recycling, food waste management, and reducing landfill contributions.

The council’s general manager of waste solutions, Justine Haves, informed that councillors will be presented with comprehensive information during the meeting. This will include community feedback from the public consultation, details on how the trial would function, and the support available for households participating in the trial. Furthermore, the discussion will align with Auckland’s Waste Minimisation and Management Plan 2024.

Following the decision, the council plans to communicate the outcome directly to households in the proposed trial regions. If the trial is not approved, the current weekly rubbish collection service will remain in place for those areas.

As Aucklanders await the committee’s verdict, the outcome of this trial could significantly impact the city’s approach to waste management and the daily lives of its residents.