1989 days ago

Aucklanders warned to stop littering used face masks

Ripu Bhatia Reporter from Community News

Rubbish collectors in Auckland have seen an increase in single-use face masks being littered around the city.

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said it served as a reminder to Aucklanders that any used masks should be put in the bin.

Goff said rubbish collectors had reported seeing an increase of masks left in parks, reserves and on the streets in the last few weeks.

“It is great that so many Aucklanders are following health advice by wearing a mask, but we also need to remember to throw disposable masks in the bin,” he said.

“We all know the importance of being a tidy Kiwi and this is no different. Used masks being thrown on the street is not only a health risk but is also terrible for our environment.

Goff said ideally, people should dispose of masks in their bins back at home so the risk was lowered for staff who collected rubbish from public bins.

Those who did choose to litter could face fines of up to $400, Goff said.

”The council’s enforcement team is working at Level 2 and I encourage Aucklanders to report littering if they see it by calling 0800 NO DUMP.”

Goff also encouraged Aucklanders to try to use reusable masks where possible.

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More messages from your neighbours
3 hours ago

Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Make a hearty dish. Take just half a minute. Add four parts of kestrel. Then just add one. What have you made?

(Trev from Silverdale kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Trev!)

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.

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3 hours ago

Nominations are officially open for the 2026 Westfield Local Heroes program

Westfield Local Hero

Know someone in your community who is driving positive change?
Westfield is inviting you to nominate your local hero online.

The successful hero for each New Zealand Westfield destination will be awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent, and each finalist will receive a $5,000 grant for their organisation or group.

Find out more about the program and nominate your Local Hero now
Find out more

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6 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 59.5% Yes, supporting people is important!
    59.5% Complete
  • 26.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
    26.2% Complete
  • 14.4% ... It is complicated
    14.4% Complete
1120 votes