Auckland Council has announced a ‘zero tolerance’ crackdown on illegal dumping as latest figures show that more than 2,000 tonnes of waste is illegally dumped in the city annually – a figure the Council says is on the rise.
In the past financial year, the Council has issued 599 fines for illegal dumping – nearly double the 309 issued the previous year.
“Everyone wants to take pride in their neighbourhoods, but illegal dumping undermines that. It’s not just households, but commercial waste also contributes to the problem. In some cases, people are coming from outside the area to dump in these hotspots, which is unfair to locals who have to put up with the mess and its impacts,” said Auckland Council General Manager Waste Solutions, Justine Haves.
“We would like to remind everyone that illegal dumping is unacceptable, and offenders will face enforcement action. Anyone who witnesses dumping is encouraged to report it via the council’s hotline 0800 NO DUMP (0800 663 867) or website.”
Ms Haves said there are a range of options for people and businesses seeking to responsibly and easily dispose of their waste.
“We also see a lot of mattresses and furniture that our inorganic collection service would have taken care of. These services are already covered by your rates, so we encourage everyone to make full use of them. Local community recycling centres also accept waste and recycling, often for a nominal fee,” she said.
Holding offenders accountable is central to Auckland Council’s approach to illegal dumping as shown in a recent case involving a vehicle owner who refused to cooperate. The Council says a cul-de-sac in Māngere has been a persistent target for illegal dumping, despite clear signage and surveillance. In June 2024, cameras captured a vehicle unloading rubbish on the kerbside. When the vehicle’s owner refused to identify those responsible, the matter was taken to court under the Litter Act 1979. After failing to meet diversion conditions, the defendant was fined $750 plus costs last month.
The Council is working closely with community groups, businesses and industry to prevent illegal dumping and catch offenders, with greater use of cameras in hotspots.
A pilot project at Island Road, Ihumātao in Mangere has seen six fines issued since August 2025. Offenders can face fines of up to $400 under the Litter Act 1979, and in serious cases, prosecution with penalties reaching $30,000.
The Council encourages Aucklanders to use its inorganic collection service and both individuals and businesses can visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/whereitgoes for guidance on proper disposal methods.
To report illegal dumping, call 0800 NO DUMP (0800 663 867) available 24/7.
