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.

More messages from your neighbours

16 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.

Local Highlight

1 day ago

Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑

Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.

We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?

Want to read more? The Press has you covered!